| Description | Shenley Fields Cottage Homes were opened in August 1887 for the purpose of removing children from the Workhouse, and placing them in the care of foster parents. The original site included eight houses, with four more being added between 1887 and 1910, and a further house in 1936. The rules of the Homes continued the strict discipline of the Workhouse, with the children's freedom being rigidly restricted. A special on-site school also ensured their separation from the wider community. In 1912 the Homes came under the Authority of the combined Birmingham Union, before passing under the control of Birmingham County Council in 1932. The Homes continued to operate until the early 1980s, when Shenley Fields began to close down, the last children moving out in 1987.
Consisting of seven members of the Board of Guardians, the Committee was set up in 1885 'to carry out and superintend the erection of, furnishing and making all other necessary arrangements for the proper working of the Cottage Homes at Woodcock Hill, reporting its proceedings to this Board from time to time' (see GP KN/2/1/24). As well as reporting to the Board of Guardians, the Committee worked closely with the Local Government Board, particularly regarding the funding required for building the Homes. The Committee's minutes initially contain information on the building of the homes, and the appointment of staff to them. After August 1887, the minutes are more concerned with the day-to-day running of the homes and their facilities. Frequent references are also made to individual children, particularly those apprenticed by the Guardians to local tradesmen. |