5) Municipal Schemes 2: Norwich Flashcards
What was the Norwich scheme aware of, and what did they do about it?
The Norwich Scheme was aware of unemployment and tried to help by creating jobs rather than punishing the unemployed.
Why was the Norwich Scheme different from government legislation?
Because there were people within the community willing to help who had seem the problems going on around them.
What were the main motives for the Norwich Scheme?
Political fears was the main motive. The Kett Rebellion of 1549 and the Rebellion of the northern Earls of 1569 were examples of disorder in the Norwich area.
What was conducted in Norwich and what became obvious?
A comprehensive census was conducted where 2,300 people were questioned. It became obvious that beggars were a problem, and were using church porches, barns and cellars as shelter. In addition, when they were not begging they were becoming drunk and disorderly.
What did authorities decide to differentiate between?
They differentiated between the native poor who were generally peaceful and law-abiding and the large numbers of immigrants who had been attracted by the generosity of the city.
What else did the census show?
It showed exactly who was unemployed and differentiated between those able to work and those who were too old or disabled.
What wasn’t allowed in the city.
No begging was allowed in the city.
What was provided for the able-bodied poor?
Work was provided for the able-bodied poor and it was ensured that there would be no shortage of employment.
What happened to the sums available for poor relief?
They trebled and everyone able to contribute taxes was expected to do so.
Who were the people to benefit from the poor relief?
Those who were ill or had lost the use of an arm or a leg so contributions amounted to a kind of sickness benefit.
Where were beggars to be placed?
In the Bridewell established in 1565.
Where were other young people sent?
To St. Giles Hospital to be educated.
What were appointed to ensure the scheme worked effectively?
A number of officials - the mayor was in charge of the Bridewell, and four elders were responsible for specific areas in the city.
What was the work of the deacons?
Deacons recorded the names of the poor and anyone who had lived there for less than 3 years was to be sent away and entry was refused to strangers who didn’t have access to employment.
What was the extension added to the Norwich Scheme in 1574?
In 1574, all unemployed people were to meet at ‘Market Cross’ at 5 a.m. with the tools of their trade in case they were offered work - they were making the process of finding work easier for them.
