The Vagrancy Act 1824

The Vagrancy Act 1824 was a UK law aimed at controlling homelessness and itinerant lifestyles. It made it an offense for wandering without a lawful excuse or employment, and allowed authorities to arrest and imprison those deemed vagrants or idle beggars. The act was intended to discourage wandering and begging outside regulated areas, reflecting concern about social order. Over time, parts of the law became outdated or controversial, especially its criminalization of homelessness and begging. Today, it remains a historic piece of legislation highlighting past approaches to managing social issues related to poverty and mobility.