Free school meals act of 1906- local
authorities could provide meals for the
poorest children in the school.
By 1914, 50% are doing so
31,000 children
receiving school
meals.
The National Insurance Act
1911 made it compulsory for
the poorest workers and
workers in industries most
prone to unemployment to
participate in a government
backed scheme to provide
insurance against sickness and
unemployment
Measures were taken to restrict the exploitation of
workers and provide medical checks for school
children.
1907 authorities
are able to instigate
medical inspections
of children
by 1914 75% are doing so
1908 Old age pensions
introduced for those over 70
1908 Children's Act. Children at risk
could be put into safe custody.
1909 labour exchanges
introduced to help the
unemployed find work.
83 in operation by 1910
Other influences on the social reform.
Labour Party- there was a threat from the newly
formed Labour Party especially as the franchise
had been extended to working men in 1867 and
1884
Social surveys- Charles Booth in London
and B.S Rowntree in York
Germany introduced social reforms under
Bismarck
Trade unions- Liberals feared losing support if
workers saw the unions as a political force
that could improve working conditions