NOTES FROM A WORKHOUSE EXAMINATION COMMITTEE
The question of workhouse management has been very much to the fore of late years. We have had two circulars, at least, from the Upper Board upon the subject—one in January 1895, the other in July 1896. The first is general, and suggests various improvements in workhouse and infirmary, such as classification, improvements in nursing, and various details, such as the abolition of distinctive clothing and other minor relaxations. The second deals chiefly with the treatment of the aged and infirm, for whom it prescribes classification as especially important, and reiterates the suggestions made in the former circular as to leave of absence and non-distinctive clothing. The circulars are only a reflection of what had been taking place in many parts of London prior to their issue. Altogether, no doubt, the tendency of the last few years has been in the direction of greater indulgence for certain classes of the inmates of workhouses. With this, so long as it is rightly applied, no one will quarrel.
The Local Government Board in its second circular lays especial stress upon the importance of classification of the aged and infirm, and of separating those who have previously "led moral and respectable lives from those who, from their habits of speech, or for other reasons, are likely to cause them discomfort." It would be interesting
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