What were the pros and cons of the workhouse?

Answer 1

Workhouses, established in the 19th century, provided shelter and basic provisions for the impoverished, helping to alleviate widespread poverty. Pros included access to food, housing, and employment opportunities, often seen as a necessary alternative to starvation. However, the cons were significant: workhouses were notorious for their harsh conditions, overcrowding, and punitive labor practices, leading to a loss of dignity and autonomy for the inmates. Additionally, the stigma associated with entering a workhouse often discouraged those in need from seeking help.