On This Day, 12 February 1916

Birmingham Mail

Saturday 12th February 1916 (excerpt)

WOMEN MUNITION WORKERS

POSITION IN BIRMINGHAM
NEED FOR MORE WOMEN SUPERVISORS

The position in Birmingham, in which at the present time there is probably more female labour than in any other industrial centre in the country, regarding provision made for the welfare of the employees in the large industrial works is considered fairly satisfactory. Every munition factory of any considerable size has its canteen, where at any hour of the day or night the workers may obtain meals or refreshments. In some instances these places are arranged for by the employees; in others the accommodation is provided by employers, the working part of the arrangement being conducted by a body of voluntary lady workers. In this way good attention is paid to the creature requirements of the workers, and thoughtful provision is also made for their health. The largest factories have on the staff a medical officer and trained nurse; there is usually an ambulance room, containing from eight to ten beds, for the accommodation of any worker who may be injured or seized with illness; and a lady superintendent has a general oversight of the welfare of women employees.