Quakers have a long tradition of being active in, and seeking to make a difference to, the world in which they find themselves. In their actions they seek to put Quaker testimonies such as equality, peace and integrity into practice, as best they can. This website aims to bring together the many different ways in which they have done this, all over the world. There are three areas on this website:

  • Quakers in Action, a database describing as many as possible of the different things Quakers/Friends have done, and are doing, all over the world.
  • Ideas for Educators is about using Quakers in Action and related resources in different learning contexts.
  • Discussion Areas are for exploring ideas and developing initiatives.

Please read the about us page to find out more about us and the aims of this site.

Featured Articles

Illustration for Chocolate Makers
Chocolate Makers
During the 18th and 19th century the three great Quaker chocolate firms emerged, all family enterprises – Fry’s, Cadbury’s and Rowntrees. They developed many new methods and products, and took great care of employee welfare. In the 20th century the firms became public companies and Quaker involvement soon declined.
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Illustration for Relief of Poverty
Relief of Poverty
As well as responding to the acute needs of those suffering from the results of war or famine, Quakers have also taken a longer-term approach to relieving poverty.
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Illustration for William Allen
William Allen
(1770 – 1843) was an eminent scientist, and pharmacist, and built his Allen and Hanbury business into a large concern. He was a generous philanthropist and activist, supporting many causes such as anti-slavery, poverty, emergency relief, and education. He travelled extensively throughout Europe and Russia, in connection with these.
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Illustration for Railways
Railways
Quakers provided the finance, vision and in some cases the project management for the emergence of a network of railways in England. This had a profound influence on the transport of goods and people during the development of the Industrial Revolution.
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Featured Ideas for Educators

Human Rights
Pennsylvania’s Only Witch Trial
BY:
The pack contains a short play based on Margaret Mattson’s trial for witchcraft in Pennsylvania in 1683. There are Teacher Notes with suggestions on how the play could be used and ideas for following up.
RATING:
*****
AGE RANGE:
7-11
11-16
SETTING:
Primary
Secondary

Featured Discussion Areas