Why was there a problem with catering for the poor? In the 20th century, widespread provisions were finally made for poor relief, protecting those who were unwell, elderly and unemployed. Early developments in providing for the poor were based on those who were considered ‘deserving’ and ‘undeserving’, ideas which are still prevalent in modern society. … Read more
‘Swing’ was a movement led by impoverished labourers. They took action by machine-breaking and arson, campaigned for increased wages, and called for more generous poor relief. In 1829 there was a wet summer and autumn, which led to record applications for poor relief. An extremely cold winter meant that there was no outdoor employment. The … Read more
For the 3 million people living in slums in post-war Britain, the refrain that “they had never had it so good” was an insult. Families were living in single rooms with no bathroom, sharing toilets and cooking facilities with multiple other residents. The housing was often substandard, with no foundations and crawling with vermin. Paying … Read more
