The Speenhamland system

The Speenhamland system was a form of early social assistance introduced in 1795 in England. It aimed to provide financial support to impoverished workers by supplementing their wages based on the price of bread and family size. The idea was to ensure a basic living standard and reduce extreme poverty. Funding came from local taxes, and the system effectively set a minimum income, discouraging wage increases and potentially encouraging dependency on aid. While intended as a safety net, it influenced future welfare policies and highlighted the complexities of balancing support and incentives within social security.