Hannah More (1745-1833), the Bristol-born writer, educationalist and abolitionist, was known for her charitable work. The daughter of a schoolmaster, she and two of her sisters founded the Academy for Young Ladies on College Green in 1762. Hannah More (detail from Some Who Have Made Bristol Famous).

It became one of the country's leading schools. Keen to establish herself as a playwright, More moved to London in the 1770s, at first mixing with people of the theatre. She was increasingly drawn to the world of Evangelical Christians, writing her own moral works and encouraging the establishment of Sunday schools. Having settled with her sisters in the Mendip Hills, she offered educational, spiritual and financial help to Somerset miners and agricultural workers. She spent her final years in Clifton.

Others associated with welfare and social reform, and with Bristol include:

Harriet Martineau (1802-76), abolitionist champion of economic change and education for women.

George Müller (1805-1898), Prussian-born preacher and philanthropist who established orphanages on Ashley Down.

Mary Carpenter (1807-77), central figure in Bristol reform movement.

Mary Estlin (c 1820-1902), secretary of the Bristol & Clifton Anti-Slavery Society.

Susanna Winkworth (1820-84), pioneered better housing for the poor.

Agnes Beddoe (c 1832-1914), established the Bristol Emigration Society.

Emma Saunders (1841-1927), known as The Railwaymen's Friend for her charitable work.

Emily Sturge (1847-92), supporter of education for the poor, girls and women.

Elizabeth Sturge (1849-1944), social and educational reformer.

Helen Sturge (1858-1945), campaigner for welfare of factory girls.

Catherine Grace (1907-1986), reformed education for children with learning difficulties.