The Surrey Dispensary was founded in 1777 to administer advice and medicine to the poor of the Borough of Southwark and places adjacent.

It explained that, The poor constitute an important part of every large community, and justly merit the attention and assistance of the rich; especially in sickness, when they are rendered incapable of supporting themselves and their families.

Hard labour, unwholesome food, want of proper clothing, and exposure to the vicissitudes of air and weather, subject them to many disorders unknown to those whose affluence can procure the conveniences of life.

He admitted to frequently visiting places where excrement accumulated for months or remained in streets until the showers of rain washed it away.

[6] In 1927 the dispensary moved to the corner of Falmouth Road and Trinity Street[1] where its former building is grade II listed with Historic England.

[5] As of 2018[update], a charity still exists by the name of the Surrey Dispensary which makes small grants to the sick, convalescent, disabled or infirm of north Southwark.