Heritage Compass banner

The Workhouse Network

The Workhouse Network

The Workhouse Network is a Subject Specialist Network (SSN) that brings together museums, heritage organisations, archives and universities interested in welfare history. ​The Network exists to share expertise, develop skills, knowledge and understanding and to promote the understanding of the history and contemporary relevance of poverty, welfare and the poor. The Workhouse Network brings institutions that were workhouses into contact with archives, libraries, researchers, historians, creative practitioners, welfare institutions, charities and universities. It furthers museum workforce skills and knowledge. It enables members to enhance public understanding and to create sustainable projects. It carries out research on contemporary issues and historical buildings, collections and archives to create diverse, dynamic and inspiring displays.

 

​"We empower our diverse network member organisations and partners to create social impact and engagement around poverty. This subject is as relevant today as it was in Victorian times, and it touches every life in the country."