Unit 4 Topic 2 Flashcards
What was the purpose of the Poor Law Act of 1601?
It established the principle that money raised through taxation should provide food and clothing to the ‘deserving’ poor, such as the sick, disabled, or elderly.
When was the first national state pension introduced in the UK?
The Old Age Pensions Act of 1908 introduced the first national state pension.
What was the main difference between the National Insurance Act of 1911 and the 1908 Old Age Pensions Act?
The 1911 Act introduced the concept of compulsory worker and employer contributions, while the 1908 Act was funded entirely by taxation.
What major welfare reforms took place after World War II?
The National Insurance Act 1948 and the National Assistance Act 1948 established the modern welfare state, providing support “from cradle to grave.”
What are the main reasons individuals might rely on state benefits?
Job loss, low income, inability to work due to illness/disability, or retirement.
What are the two types of UK benefits?
Contributory benefits and non-contributory benefits.
What is the main difference between contributory and non-contributory benefits?
Contributory benefits require sufficient National Insurance contributions, while non-contributory benefits do not.
Who is eligible for ‘new style’ Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA)?
Individuals aged 18+, working less than 16 hours per week, actively seeking work, and with sufficient National Insurance contributions.
What support does JSA provide beyond financial assistance?
Jobcentre Plus offers employability skills training, job application support, and work coach meetings.
What is Statutory Sick Pay (SSP)?
A fixed weekly amount paid by employers for up to 28 weeks when an employee is too sick to work.
Who can claim Employment and Support Allowance (ESA)?
People below state pension age who are too ill or disabled to work and have paid sufficient National Insurance contributions.
What are the two ESA categories after 13 weeks?
Support Group (severely limited work capacity) and Work-Related Activity Group (capable of some work).
Who is eligible for Housing Benefit?
People on low incomes who are unemployed or already claiming benefits, but new claims are generally replaced by Universal Credit.
What is the ‘bedroom tax’?
A reduction in Housing Benefit for those living in social housing with more bedrooms than deemed necessary.
