Hello Lisa Cottage Homes were introduced in a number of Unions from the late 1870s and provided an alternative to workhouse accommodation for children. Usually built in rural locations, the homes were based on the idea of a "village" of small houses each accommodating "families" of between twelve and thirty children. As well as houses and a school, cottage home sites included workshops, an infirmary, chapel, and even a swimming pool. Kind Regards Angela (LEE) Eckington U.K.