New Zealand Trained Nurses Association

Kai Tiaki : the journal of the nurses of New Zealand, Volume XVI, Issue 2, 1 April 1923, Page 51

New Zealand Trained Nurses Association

CANTERBURY BRANCH.

A club room for the use of members was opened here early this year, and so far seems to meet the requirement of the association as regards the holding of Council and general meetings. It is also a centre where nurses can meet for social intercourse, afternoon tea, read, or write letters, or any of the privileges obtained in a women's club room. The idea was first suggested by some members, of having a place where books of reference, and others of interest to nurses, and nursing journals, could be seen, or some special treatment or subject studied. After much delay and looking round for such a place, a room was found in the Square, on the top floor of the Royal Exchange Buildings (next the G.P.0.) The lift is available till 6 p.m., but if required after that hour, it must be by arrangement. We are renting the front part of a very large studio, our part being partitioned off to about seven feet, which ensures privacy, and at the same time gives the advantage of having the room open all day. We are fortunate in having one of our members, who is not in active work, to keep the room in order, and attend to various little matters as regards books, etc. We had to supplement the furnishing of the room by additional chairs, cushions and other articles, all of a very inexpensive kind, but which gave the room a cosy and home-like appearance. The bookcases are gradually getting filled, and in time we hope to have quite a good library. The medical men and other friends

have given, and some of our own members have contributed books and other things. With our increased subscription this year we hope to be able to meet our liabilities. We hope the room will prove of advantage and be appreciated by the nurses . We still give 3s from each subscription annually to the Nurses' Memorial Fund, and hope the fund will continue to grow as it is of great benefit to nurses requiring assistance. A general meeting, followed by a lecture given by Dr. O'Brien on the eye and ear, was held on February 22nd in the Nurses' Club Room and was much enjoyed by those present. The lecturer showed what advance has been made in recent years, and how much can be done when the cases are treated in the early stages, but if neglected are often hopelessly incurable. A vote of thanks was accorded the doctor. A deputation consisting of the president and two vice-presidents waited upon the B.M.A. members while here in conference in reference to the employment of so many untrained women while many of the trained nurses were unemployed. After hearing our complaint, stating that so many homes were kept by unqualified women and many engaged in private nursing, to the detriment of our nurses, the Council were most sympathetic and expressed surprise that so many unqualified women were employed in New Zealand . Though the whole question seemed to bristle with difficulties, as regards the domestic problem, etc., they promised to do all they could to support the trained nurse, and to advance her interest. We hope some good may result from the opportunity of airing our grievances.