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To what extent were the Liberal social welfare reforms effective in meeting the needs of the British people? - Scottish Highers History - Question 16 - 2022
Question 16
To what extent were the Liberal social welfare reforms effective in meeting the needs of the British people?
Worked Solution & Example Answer:To what extent were the Liberal social welfare reforms effective in meeting the needs of the British people? - Scottish Highers History - Question 16 - 2022
Step 1
Context of Liberal Reforms
Answer
The Liberal social welfare reforms were introduced in a context where attitudes towards poverty were previously laissez-faire. The reforms aimed to address the needs of the British people, particularly the vulnerable segments of society, acknowledging that poverty was a significant issue requiring government intervention.
Step 2
Effectiveness for Young People
Answer
Young people, particularly children, were targeted through educational reforms. The Education Provision of Schools Act 1906 allowed local authorities to provide meals to children from low-income families, thereby addressing the immediate needs of malnourished children. Furthermore, the establishment of the Children’s Charter aimed to protect juvenile rights, making significant strides in improving the welfare of young people.
Step 3
Effectiveness for the Elderly
Answer
For the elderly population, the reforms had mixed outcomes. Older individuals often remained in poverty, receiving little support. Although the Old Age Pensions Act aimed to provide pensions to individuals over 70, the low income threshold meant that many elderly people continued to struggle financially, indicating limitations in the effectiveness of these reforms.
Step 4
Effectiveness for the Unemployed
Answer
The reforms also addressed unemployment, a significant cause of poverty. The National Insurance Act Parts I and II aimed to provide some financial support to workers in times of need. However, the contributions required to access these benefits were often a barrier for the low-paid or newly unemployed, and as such, many did not benefit from these provisions.
Step 5
Overall Assessment
Answer
In summary, while the Liberal social welfare reforms made strides in addressing the needs of certain groups, their overall effectiveness was limited. The reforms did provide some immediate relief, particularly for children and temporary workers, but they did not comprehensively address the systemic issues of poverty faced by many British people, especially the elderly and long-term unemployed.