In the early 1900s in Britain, poverty was widespread with overcrowded homes and high rents. Employment options were limited to low-skilled, low-paying jobs that offered little security. Children especially struggled, facing hunger, illness, and high infant mortality rates. The last resort for those with nowhere else to go was the harsh workhouse, where families were separated and conditions were poor. Beginning in 1906, the Liberal government introduced reforms to help address poverty through programs like free school meals, pensions, and unemployment benefits.