The workhouse system evolved in the 17th century, allowing parishes to reduce the cost to ratepayers of providing poor relief.

When did workhouses start?

It was one of the first examples of a notoriously harsh regime, which was adopted nationally in 1834, to force vulnerable people to work in exchange for accommodation and food. The workhouse was home to 158 inhabitants - men, women and children - who were split up and forbidden from meeting.

When did workhouses start in UK?

The 1834 Law therefore formally established the Victorian workhouse system which has become so synonymous with the era. This system contributed to the splitting up of families, with people forced to sell what little belongings they had and hoping they could see themselves through this rigorous system.