Introduction
This essay will argue that living conditions in Britain have improved significantly since 1900, but these improvements have not been universal nor equally distributed across different social groups.

Housing
At the start of the 20th century, living conditions for many, particularly the working-class in urban areas, were dire. Overcrowded slums were commonplace, lacking basic sanitation and contributing to the spread of diseases like typhoid and cholera. Government intervention, however, played a crucial role in improving housing standards. For example, the Housing Act of 1919, passed in the aftermath of World War One, led to the construction of hundreds of thousands of new homes. Later, post-World War Two, slum clearances and the construction of large council estates further improved housing for many, providing more spacious and sanitary accommodations.
However, these improvements were not without their problems. High-rise flats, while offering modern amenities, often suffered from poor construction and social isolation. Furthermore, the decline of council housing stock since the 1980s, coupled with the rise of private landlords, has led to affordability issues and a decline in standards for some. The gap between those who own their homes and those who rent, particularly in London and other major cities, highlights the ongoing challenges in providing affordable and quality housing for all.

Public Health and the Environment
The 20th century witnessed significant advancements in public health, directly impacting living conditions. Improved sanitation, vaccination programs, and the development of antibiotics drastically reduced the incidence of infectious diseases that were widespread at the beginning of the century. The Clean Air Act of 1956, a response to the deadly London Smog of 1952 which killed thousands, stands as a landmark achievement, dramatically improving air quality in urban areas by controlling smoke emissions from factories and homes.
Despite this progress, challenges remain. Pollution from vehicles became a growing concern in the latter half of the century. While measures like lead-free fuel have mitigated some risks, air pollution, particularly from diesel vehicles, remains a public health concern in many cities, leading to respiratory problems and other health issues. Additionally, concerns about climate change and its impact on living conditions have come to the forefront in recent decades, highlighting the need for sustainable practices.

Diet and Nutrition
While rationing during World War Two initially restricted food choices, the latter half of the century saw significant improvements in diet and nutrition for many Britons. Increased affluence, combined with technological advancements in food production and distribution, led to greater availability and variety of foodstuffs. Supermarkets offered a wider range of products at lower prices, making nutritious food more accessible to a larger proportion of the population.
However, these positive changes have been accompanied by new challenges. The rise of processed foods, high in sugar, salt, and saturated fat, and sedentary lifestyles have contributed to health issues like obesity, type 2 diabetes, and heart disease, particularly among lower-income groups. This highlights that improvements in living conditions are not always straightforward and can lead to unintended consequences.

Conclusion
In conclusion, living conditions in Britain have undergone a dramatic transformation since 1900. Government legislation, public health initiatives, and technological advancements have led to significant improvements in areas like housing, sanitation, and access to food. Life expectancy has increased significantly, and many diseases that were once widespread have been largely eradicated. However, the emergence of new challenges, such as inequalities in housing standards, environmental concerns, and diet-related health issues, demonstrates that the evolution of living conditions is an ongoing process. Ensuring that these improvements reach all members of society and are sustainable in the long term remains a key challenge for the 21st century.