Father James Nugent

Father James Nugent (1822-1905) was a pioneer of social reform, child welfare and poverty action.

The legacy of Father Nugent’s work continues today and as such he is a figure of historical significance and contemporary relevance whose influence has touched both the local and international community.

In 1847 an epidemic of typhus raged through the overcrowded slums that housed Liverpool’s poorest citizens. Through his ministry Father Nugent witnessed at first hand the desperate and appalling conditions.

Spurred on by the scenes of poverty and degradation, and the knowledge that there were upwards of 20,000 children living rough on the streets, Father Nugent persuaded the Mayor of Liverpool to call a public meeting at the Town Hall, to stir the conscience of the city. He succeeded!

By the time of his death (27 June 1905), Father Nugent had given homes and valuable skills to thousands of children; laying firm foundations for the work currently undertaken by the charity that bears his name.

The Life of Father Nugent

'Children of the Second Spring' by John Furnival

A revised biography of Father Nugent, Children of the Second Spring by Monsignor John Furnival has recently been published by Gracewing Publishers. Copies are available from Nugent Care price £17 (including P&P) - please use the Contact Us section of the website to order.

Presentation for Schools

We also have a PDF presentation available for use within schools:

Father Nugent Presentation (1.6Mb)

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