The totally fictional "Moortop" of this story is an old Workhouse building, often referred to as "The Union." In the period described in "This Way Out" (1960s and 1970s) the inmates, males and females in separate areas, were housed in what was known as "Part III Accommodation." This was residential provision for those who were not able to fend for themselves, the long-term sick, the elderly, unmarried mothers and other unfortunates. The story was written by a former employee of one such establishment as a tribute to the large number of those who lived and died in such a "Union," and to those who cared enough to try and make the inmates' lives as bearable as possible. All proceeds from the sale of this book will be given to Age UK.