Poor rate

Compulsory poor rates provided a more dependable source of money, but also made poverty a direct financial concern for those paying the tax. Government action therefore combined compassion, religious obligation and practical self-interest.

The Vagabonds Act, 1572, established a more organised system of relief funded through a poor rate. Justices of the Peace registered the poor, and local officials were responsible for helping the unemployed find work. National legislation created a framework, but local communities administered it.

A local poor rate raised money, while overseers organised relief. This made assistance a public responsibility rather than leaving it entirely to voluntary charity.