Charles Vickery Drysdale Blue Plaque

About This Blue Plaque

Dr. Charles Vickery Drysdale was a pioneering advocate for birth control and family planning in early 20th century Britain. Born in 1874, Drysdale dedicated his life to promoting sexual health education and making contraception more accessible, despite the social stigma surrounding these topics at the time.

In 1921, Drysdale took a bold step by opening one of the first birth control clinics in Britain at 153a East Street in the Walworth area of Southwark, London. This clinic provided information and contraceptive methods to women, empowering them to make informed choices about their reproductive health. Drysdale’s work laid the foundation for the modern family planning movement in the UK.

As a co-founder of the Family Planning Association, Drysdale played a crucial role in shaping the organization’s mission and initiatives. The FPA continues to operate today, providing sexual health services and education across the United Kingdom. Drysdale’s legacy lives on through the countless individuals who have benefited from the increased access to family planning resources that he helped to establish.

Southwark, where Drysdale opened his groundbreaking clinic, has a rich history dating back to Roman times. Once known for its thriving industries and working-class communities, the borough has undergone significant regeneration in recent decades. Today, Southwark is a vibrant, diverse area of London, home to iconic landmarks like the Shard and Borough Market.

Dr. Charles Vickery Drysdale passed away in 1961, but his tireless efforts to promote sexual health and reproductive rights continue to inspire activists and healthcare providers to this day. The blue plaque at 153a East Street serves as a reminder of the transformative impact one person can have in the fight for social progress and equality.