The role of livery companies has changed greatly over the centuries, but they continue to play an integral part both in the administration of their particular trade, and in the life of the City of London.
Trade Support
Charities
Civic Support
Trade Support
Today's livery companies range from those which once had a trade or
craft which no longer exists (e.g. Mercers,Wax Chandlers, Bowyers),
through those who play a part in a continuing trade or craft (e.g. Goldsmiths,
Butchers, Saddlers, Farriers), to those whose members are entirely drawn
from modern professions (e.g. Chartered Accountants, Insurers, Arbitrators).
While all livery companies are social organisations, based on good fellowship and common interests, many are actively engaged in fostering the well-being of their trade, craft or profession. Some of those whose crafts have disappeared have switched their support to others - for example the Horners are now involved in plastics, the Fanmakers in air conditioning and the Tallow Chandlers have interests with the oil industry.
Charities
One matter which concerns every livery company is that of charity, which
is ongoing and covers the whole range of activity from the relief of
distress to almshouses, schools and higher education. No new company
may be granted livery without the possession of a substantial charitable
fund. All the older companies have charitable trusts or funds which
have been in existence for many years.
The Livery's combined contribution to national charities is impressive, the more so for being directed with particular knowledge of the needs of the disadvantaged in modern society.
Civic Support
All livery companies share the ties which link them to the Corporation
of London - the Freedom of the City which all liverymen have to possess;
the grant of livery by the court of Aldermen, the rights of liverymen
to attend Common Hall at Guildhall and elect the Lord Mayor, Sheriffs
and other officers each year; the pursuit of matters of common interest
through the Livery Committee of the Court of Common Council and the
Livery Consultative Committee (which has a wider membership) and participation
in the United Guilds' Service which brings Church, City, Corporation,
Livery Companies and citizens together each year in an impressive ceremony
in St Paul's Cathedral.
