The Welsh Benefits System

Although the social security system is not formally devolved to Wales as it is in Northern Ireland, or even partially devolved as it is in Scotland, the Welsh Government and Welsh local authorities are responsible for a huge range of benefits that are delivered locally or where policy is decided nationally in the Senedd. Can the systems and benefits be improved in Wales? Can the complexity of applying to the same authority for multiple benefits be streamlined? Should the Welsh Government be able to do more in this area to support individuals and families in greatest need? All great questions addressed in a recent report co-authored by the Bevan Foundation and Policy in Practice, who join us to discuss the Welsh Benefits System. Our guests: Dr Steffan Evans: https://twitter.com/SteffHEvans Head of Policy (Poverty) at the Bevan Foundation Zoe Charlesworth: https://twitter.com/ZoeCharleswort1 Benefits Research & Policy Consultant at Policy in Practice Jack Rowlands: https://twitter.com/jackrowh Analyst, Policy in Practice Bevan Foundation: https://twitter.com/BevanFoundation Policy in Practice: https://twitter.com/policy_practice A Common Approach to the Welsh benefits system report: https://www.bevanfoundation.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Final-A-data-view-of-a-common-approach-to-Welsh-benefits-Bevan.pdf If you're enjoying the podcast, please leave us a rating or review in your podcast app or on YouTube and, if you are able to do so, please consider supporting us from just £3/month: http://www.patreon.com/hiraethpod