Catalogue Number
NMLH.1992.288
Object Name
Rule Book
Title
Hearts of Oak Benefit Society Revised Rules 1899
People
T. C. Edwards, Hearts of Oak Benefit Society
Description
Letter addressed to T.G(?). Edwards to notify that their Sickness benefit claim has been received but has been found incomplete as it does not explain the cause of the injury and the circumstances under which it occurred. On the reverse of the letter are general instructions to sick members. The Sickness Claims paper sheet folded inside the book, so seen as part of the item.
The Hearts of Oak Benefit Society was one of the larger friendly socities in the 19th cenutry. The society was established in 1842 as a mutual aid society, and was named after the wooden ships of the British navy. Following the passing of the Friendly Societies Act, the membership and range of activities grew; by 1877, there were so many members that a full Annual General Meeting (AGM) was not practical and the society moved to a system of governance by a Board of Delegates.
As with other friendly societies, members paid into a mutual fund which could be drawn on in times of need, including due to illness or injury. Before the National Health Service, healthcare was very expensive. Societies such as this would help spread the potential cost out, meaning more people could access the care they needed. However, criteria for membership was very strict; members had to be of "good character" and earning a minimum wage. In 1900, this was 24 shillings a week. This excluded many labourers and low-skilled workers, and membership tended to be among the higher-skilled workers, shopkeepers, and others in the newly growing 'middle classes'.
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