How social security works - Softcover

Spicker, Paul

Softcover

ISBN 10: 184742810X ISBN 13: 9781847428103

Publisher: Policy Press, 2011

Synopsis

How social security works is an introduction to the much-misunderstood system of benefits in Britain. The book is an accessible, broadly based and sometimes controversial text which can help readers to make sense of the system in practice. It explains the guiding principles, outlines the social context, considers the development and political dimensions of benefits, and reviews how the system operates now. There are detailed discussions of the types of benefit, and the contingencies covered by the benefits system. Paul Spicker examines whether the system offers value for money, how it could be simplified and how it can be improved. The book will be useful to students on undergraduate and professional courses, but beyond that it will appeal to policy makers, practitioners and a broader general readership.

About this title

Review:

At last! A good, critical and up-to-date introduction to social security. It will be of enormous assistance to students, academics and indeed anyone interested in social policy. Jonathan Bradshaw, Professor of Social Policy, University of York

A comprehensive account of the principles of British social security delivered in bite-sized chunks beloved by students. Robert Walker, Professor of Social Policy, University of Oxford

Overall the book is extensive, clear, accessible and engaging. It is both through provoking and informative and will no doubt be a key text for students and others engaged with the social security system. Lee Gregory, University of Cardiff

About the Author:

Paul Spicker is Grampian Chair of Public Policy at the Robert Gordon University, Aberdeen. In 2007 he was a special adviser to the House of Commons Work and Pensions committee for their report on the simplification of social security benefits. His previous books with Policy Press include 'Policy analysis for practice' (2006), 'Liberty, equality fraternity' (2006), 'The idea of poverty' (2007) and 'Social policy: themes and approaches' (2008).

About this edition

• Publisher: Policy Press
• Publication date: 2011
• ISBN 10: 184742810X
• ISBN 13: 9781847428103
• Binding: Paperback
• Number of pages: 296