Health & Welfare
During World War One, local hospitals and healthcare organisations made a vital contribution to the war effort. In a period before wholesale vaccination, many people fell victim to disease. The nature of manufacturing, housing conditions and fire safety meant that accidental injuries were also common.
In addition to fulfilling their responsibilities to the civilian population, medical staff were now called upon to treat a growing number of servicemen, many of whom were suffering life threatening injuries and psychological trauma. The situation was made even harder as medical staff were called up, or volunteered to serve at military hospitals and medical outposts in conflict zones around the world.
Local hospitals faced unprecedented levels of demand during the four year conflict, but rose to the challenge with courage and determination.
For more information about wartime hospitals and healthcare organisations in Merton, click on the links shown below: