Catalogue description RECORDS OF BATH DISTRICT NURSING ASSOCIATION

The Queen's Institute of District Nursing was established in 1886 at which time the Bath District Nursing Association was formed 'to provide skilled nursing for the Sick Poor in their homes'. The Association was affiliated to the Queen Institute in 1891 and maintained by voluntary contributions and administrators. In 1893 two houses in Rivers Street were purchased for its use and in 1894 a Maternity Home was started in 44 Rivers Street which continued until 1932 when cases were transferred to the Royal United Hospital. From 1910 midwifery students were admitted and the premises was let to Bath Maternity Hospital. From 1914 the Association provided nursing services for those receiving aid under the Poor Law and mental deficiency cases. From 1916, 44 Rivers Street became the Bath City Maternity Home with 3 beds and 5 midwives. Ante-natal clinics were held from 1917.

In 1933 the Association re-organised and the contributory scheme was introduced. In 1948 the Association's repsonsbilities were transferred to Bath City Council following the NHS Act of 1946. From 1948-1958 the Association acted as agents to Bath City Council and 44&45 Rivers Street were sold, proceeds from which were used to fund services run by the Association. The remaining funds were distributed to St John's Hospital and Bath Municipal Charities.

BATH DISTRICT NURSING ASSOCIATION