Knatchbull.27s Act Act for the Relief of the Poor 1601

the society published several pamphlets on subject, , supported sir edward knatchbull in successful efforts steer workhouse test act through parliament in 1723. act gave legislative authority establishment of parochial workhouses, both single parishes , joint ventures between 2 or more parishes. more importantly, act helped publicise idea of establishing workhouses national audience. workhouse test act made workhouses deterrent conditions regulated make them worse outside of workhouse. however, during period outdoor relief still popular method of poor relief easier administer.

by 1776 1,912 parish , corporation workhouses had been established in england , wales, housing 100,000 paupers. although many parishes , pamphlet writers expected earn money labour of poor in workhouses, vast majority of people obliged take residence in workhouses ill, elderly, or children labour proved largely unprofitable. demands, needs , expectations of poor ensured workhouses came take on character of general social policy institutions, combining functions of crèche, night shelter, geriatric ward , orphanage.