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Citizenship

Octavia’s work was based on the assumption of personal responsibility by both owners of property and tenants.

She gave even-handed encouragement to individuals from all classes to work together towards a healthy society. From the outset, the use of volunteers - latterly working alongside professionals - distinguished and underpinned her operations.


Maud Jeffrey and Octavia Hill with trainee managers
Maud Jeffrey and Octavia Hill with trainee managers


Her fundamental precept was that all forms of care could not be delivered remotely; only by the close involvement in the community by all stakeholders. The collection of rents was a means of achieving this. She insisted that tenants should act responsibly; paying rent on time and behaving considerately.