Browse the site by theme and find out more about different subjects captured on films from the home front...
Pre-war Build-up
The years and months leading up to the war brought new fears and changes whilst some elements of British life continued on as normal.
Children in War-time
Evacuation, school air raid drills, wearing
gas masks, as well as war-time Christmas parties and outings shaped
children's lives on the home front during the Second World War.
Civil
Defence -
Civilian Services
As the threat of war became a reality,
civilians were called upon to play their part in groups such as
the ARP, Women's Land Army, Fire and Medical Services.
Civil
Defence -
Home Guard
The establishment of the Home Guard service
brought civilians into new roles in defending the home front.
Community Life
Communities came together during in the
war to raise funds, commemorate the service of others, celebrate
victories, as well as create entertainment to keep up civilian
morale.
Displaced People
Many people during the war and the immediate
post-war period became displaced from their homes; made refugees
through evacuation, detention and homelessness.
Home and Family Life
The impact of the war on domestic life
is captured in home movies and other films focusing on the home,
leisure time and family events.
Industry in War-time
Most factories and farms in Britain turned
their endeavors to supporting the war effort, whist some became
targets for bombing campaigns.
Parades & Campaigning
Street parades raising funds, celebrating
or commemorating the work of the services were a strong feature
of community life on the home front.
Women's Role on the Home Front
The advent of war encouraged women to
take on new roles not previously available to them, in skilled
labour, supporting the armed forces and volunteering.
Victory Celebrations 1945
VE and VJ celebrations in 1945 marked
the end of the war and street parties, parades and other events
were held all over Britain.
Postwar Reconstruction
The restrictions of war-time life continued
on for some time after the war ended but gradually, the re-building
of cities began to take place and a new optimism emerged.