The Treacle Stick by Helen Butcher.

[Wendy]

Whilst chatting to a lady the other day who grew up in Birmingham she made a comment of how difficult life could be when living on the treacle stick.
This reminded me of a book I read some years ago. The book is about the life of the author Helen Butcher who was born Nellie Smith in Ladywood in 1917. First published in 1999.

 

[sistersue61]

Will have to look for that Wendy, then it can do the family rounds.
Sue

 

[Charlie]

In the 70s, I volunteered (was never in the army, obviously) to do all the typing - on the old stencil stuff, remember? - for a Social Services magazine called The Treacle Stick.
I didn't mind, coz I got to read it and it was really interesting!

 

[Old Boy]

Hi All.

I have lived in and around Birmingham for nigh on 85 years but cannot remember the phrase 'Treacle Stick' Using rhyming cockney slang I suppose it could mean tick i.e the never never but can someone enlighten me please.

Old Boy

 

[brummie nick]

Going on "the Parish", or "on the TreacleStick" as it was popularly known,

 

[Old Boy]

Hi,

Thankyou Nick. I am glad that I never heard the expression.

Old Boy

 

[senoraruz]

My first job when I left school was with the Ministry of Labour in Washwood Heath. The Treacle Stick office (National Assistance Board) was across the road in St Marks´church rooms.
That´s going back a bit. Claimants had to sign twice a week & benefits were paid in cash. Every penny had to be counted in & balanced at the end of the payment session.