The Impact of Civilian Evacuation in the Second World War

This book, published in 1986, examines the wartime evacuation of children in Britain from their homes in cities to safety in the countryside. It analyzes the social impact of the separation on parents and children and reveals the origins and assumptions of evacuation planning.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 186 pages
Publication date: 15 March 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This book, first published in 1986, delves into the wartime evacuation of children in Britain from their urban homes to safety in the countryside. It conducts a comprehensive analysis of the social consequences of this separation on parents and children, uncovering the underlying origins and assumptions of evacuation planning from official records. Furthermore, it explores the objectives, implementation, and evolution of the evacuation policy, assessing its success or failure and its profound impact on post-war social planning in Britain.

The evacuation process, initiated in response to the threat of German bombing, involved the relocation of approximately three million children from urban areas to rural communities. This unprecedented move aimed to protect children from the potential dangers of air raids and provide them with a safer environment. However, the evacuation was not without its challenges. Parents faced the difficult decision of leaving their homes and children behind, often without knowing when or if they would be able to return. Children, on the other hand, had to adapt to new surroundings, unfamiliar schools, and the absence of their familiar friends and relatives.

The social impact of the evacuation was profound. Parents experienced a range of emotions, including anxiety, stress, and guilt, as they were separated from their children. Children, too, faced emotional challenges, including feelings of fear, loneliness, and displacement. The evacuation also had long-term consequences for the children's social and educational development. Many children lost contact with their extended family and friends, and the disruption to their education led to learning difficulties and academic setbacks.

Despite these challenges, the evacuation policy was a significant achievement in terms of protecting children from harm. It demonstrated the resilience and adaptability of the British people in times of crisis and laid the foundation for post-war social planning. The evacuation policy also highlighted the importance of government intervention in protecting vulnerable populations and the need for coordinated efforts between different agencies to ensure the safety and well-being of children during times of crisis.

In conclusion, this book provides a valuable insight into the wartime evacuation of children in Britain. It explores the social impact of the separation on parents and children, uncovers the origins and assumptions of evacuation planning, and assesses the success or failure of the evacuation policy. The evacuation policy's legacy continues to shape post-war social planning in Britain, highlighting the importance of government intervention, community resilience, and the protection of vulnerable populations during times of crisis.

Weight: 304g
Dimension: 155 x 234 x 13 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032029689