You would think that in war torn Britain, workers welfare was the last thing on Churchill's mind. Not so! The mobilisation of the British people for war included the creation of a fit and healthy work force. To build the tanks, airplanes and weapons needed to withstand a formidable enemy required careful planning, The welfare of the workforce was crucial.
Firstly the provision of nutritious food. Canteens were introduced into the factories and many smaller work places had to make provision for the workers. Voluntary group assisted also providing hot drinks and snacks in the air raid shelters. Secondly medical officers and doctors were made available to care for the workers. Factories also had personnel to deal with any problems or issues that their staff may have. Many workers had been moved away from home and family and sometimes out of successful careers to assist the war effort. Often, people of different classes worked together. The welfare of workers extended outside of the factories to deal with problems such as re-housing or lodgings. Every aspect of their lives was important to the war effort.
At Bletchley Park the same issues applied. Admiral Hugh Sinclair, in charge of GCandCS, brought in a well known chef to provide staff with high quality food and lift morale. Entertainment was provided, or arranged by the code breakers themselves. During a visit Churchill noticing the lack of recreational activities immediately arranged for the provision of sports facilities.
The engineers, dock workers and the Merchant Navy were also given recreational and dining facilities.
Finally, working hours were monitored and it was found that reasonable hours produced steady productivity avoiding illness and absenteeism. The health and safety and welfare of workers was crucial in ensuring that people could meet the demands needed of them for the war effort and to keep morale high.
The governments compulsory powers were mainly accepted and eloquent speeches from Winston Churchill rallied the people.The eyes of the world turned to Britain wondering if a democratic island nation could adapt and rise to this challenge. With help from our Allies, we could and we did!
Source
Station X The Codebreakers of Bletchley Park By Michael Smith
Britain At War Maureen Hill
Man Power Britain's Mobilisation For War The Ministry of Information (1944)
