Elizabeth Fry

English Prison and Social Reformer

Elizabeth Fry, who since 2002 has been depicted on the Bank of England's five pound note, was the major driving force behind new legislation to make the treatment of prisoners more humane and was supported in her efforts by the reigning monarch, Queen Victoria. 

She also helped the homeless, establishing a 'night shelter' in London, and opened a training school for nurses, becoming an inspiration to Florence Nightingale who is regarded as the pioneer of modern nursing.