Gender, Health and Welfare deals primarily with the century before the creation of the classic welfare state in Britain. It provides a stimulating introduction to an historical era which saw a huge expansion in welfare services, both state and voluntary, and during which women emerged as significant 'consumers' and 'providers' of various measures.

Discusses how and why gender has been so important in shaping modern welfare provision. Key issues covered include: relationship between poverty, health and gender; case studies of female reformers; birth control; women in Labour movement