Free learning resources from arts, cultural and heritage organisations.

Teachers' Notes

Resource created by East Riding MuseumsHeritage Learning and Normanby Hall Country Park.

This resource explores the roles of charities in the First World War, focusing on those which operated in the Humber area.

Curriculum Links

  • KS3 & 4 History: World War One

Learning Objectives

  • Knowledge about the role charitable work played during the First World War
  • Understanding of the war’s impact on the civilian population
  • Skills  in analysing and interpreting historical evidence

Discussion Ideas

  • Read the article 'How the Humblest May Help' about the Freehold Bread Fund from the Hull Daily Mail, 15 September 1915 (see original news page and separate transcript in Resources section). What problems would the organisers have to overcome in sending bread to Germany?
  • Look at the image from an article in the Hull Daily Mail on 4 February 1915 (see Resources). Why do you think charities like the Soldiers’ Club and the Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Wives Club spent so much time organising entertainments?
  • How important do you think charities were to the war effort? 

Activity Ideas

  • Create a fundraising poster for the Freehold Bread Fund. How will you try to encourage people to donate?
  • Plan your own First World War charity. Who will you aim to benefit? What will you do? How will you get other people to support your charity?