The Reverend Robert Hyde founded the Industrial Society as The Boys’ Welfare Association on 3 April 1918. He had run boys' clubs in London's East End and witnessed the appalling conditions in which they worked. This direct knowledge of working conditions continued during his work for the Ministry of Munitions, where he visited workplaces in a wide range of industries and campaigned for improvements.
The Boys' Welfare Association widened its focus, and changed its name to The Industrial Welfare Society in 1919. It was greatly helped by the willingness of Prince Albert to be President. He supported the work of the Society in many ways, including visiting workplaces around the country, attending The Duke of York Boys’ Camps, and attending or sending a letter to every annual meeting until his accession to the throne as George VI in 1937, when he became our Patron. The Industrial Society was granted a Royal Charter in 1984. The Work Foundation has continued its connection with the Royal Family - HRH Prince Philip is our current Patron.