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The Workhouse


The concept of workhouses was a developing part of the welfare system back in Elizabethan times when parishes collected money from residents. In the 1723 parliament passed an act called 'The Workhouse Test Act' which was a legal framework for running workhouses. The workhouse was a place for people whom handouts were not enough. If people were able to work they could earn their board and lodging. The cost of handouts was increasing so a new standard national system was introduced in 1834. It's aim was to bring down costs and if you were destitute but able bodied this is where you went and were expected to work.  Families were not kept together.  Men, women and children were separated accordingly. 

In order to be allowed into the workhouse you would have to live in the catchment. There was an official called the Relieving Officer who was able to offer people a place at the workhouse. Once in, those in its care were provided with clothing and their own clothes were placed in storage. People could leave when they wished but would need permission.

After 1834 the system was increasingly harsh aiming to discourage people. The aim was to disincentivise the work-shy so that only those truly in need would apply.  


Dartford Workhouse was first built in 1729.  It became a Union workhouse in 1836.  In 1929 it closed and became the King Edward Avenue Hospital then later West Hill Hospital.





The Workhouse Chapel







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