One of Borlase Childs’ primary concerns was the physical well-being of the officers. In a report he presented to the Police Committee in 1863 he went into detail about sickness in the Force. In 1862 there were 6479 cases of sickness from 839 diseases. Borlase Childs believed that the good character of the Force meant they were less susceptible to diseases that were self-inflicted, including venereal disease, and were more likely to suffer as a result of walking in cold and wet conditions. This encouraged him to push for a police hospital, which was set up a few years later. He said ‘it is a matter for consideration whether the establishment of an Infirmary Ward, at one of the principal Station Houses, would not materially aid in shortening the duration of each attack of sickness, and administering to the comfort of the sick.’
Press A to hear more about George Borlase Childs and police uniform Press B to hear more about George Borlase Childs and sick officers Press C to hear more about living conditions for men