SSAC

The Social Security Advisory Committee provides independent & impartial advice to Govt on social security & welfare. Read our blogs:

[SSAC @The_SSAC]

Dr Royston takes up his five year appointment on 1 July.

We are also delighted that existing members Daphne Hall (@karaokedaf) and Dr Suzy Walton have been reappointed for a second term. Congratulations both!

[SSAC @The_SSAC]

Delighted to welcome @sam_royston to the Committee! We look forward to working with you Sam!

https://t.co/ICjiYbTAQN

[SSAC @The_SSAC]

Dr Stephen Brien added: I'm delighted that SSAC will benefit from Sam's considerable experience. The combination/breadth of research, policy & practical insight Sam brings will be valuable in all aspects of our work, especially when examining how DWP policies operate in practice.

[CASE @CASE_LSE]

All are welcome to attend our upcoming CASE #SocialExclusionSeminar on 03/06/26. In this session, Dr Stephen Brien @The_SSAC will examine how social security shapes young people’s education and career decisions at age 16. Find out more and register: https://t.co/UwyCeTCJmG

[SSAC @The_SSAC]

From stakeholder to Committee member: read Fran Bennett's early reflections on SSAC from the 'other' side 👇
https://t.co/jJjVmhRMX8

[Paul Johnson @PJTheEconomist]

Very striking report showing the cost to poorer families of young people taking apprenticeships rather than staying in full time education. The benefit system penalises apprenticeships. It shouldn't. https://t.co/TRSYeDFahA

[SSAC @The_SSAC]

The benefits system risks discouraging apprenticeships: @prospect_clark's blog reflects on SSAC's latest report which identifies a mismatch between the education & benefits systems, & explores how that can affect the choices young people make at age 16.
https://t.co/X8cLsJBZiy

[Tom Clark @prospect_clark]

1

Successive governments have held up apprenticeships as a valid 16+ choice

But @The_SSAC has uncovered how a serious mismatch with benefits has evolved

It puts barriers in the way of young people taking up the best training for them

My blog explains https://t.co/p40Xm0ioyf

[SSAC @The_SSAC]

*NEW REPORT* At a time when more than 1 in 8 young people are NEET, SSAC finds that benefit rules at age 16 can create financial cliff‑edges - particularly around apprenticeships. The impacts fall hardest on disadvantaged families, including young carers.

https://t.co/95PolgTiGv

[SSAC @The_SSAC]

*NEW* Our advice to the Secretary of State on @DWPgovuk's 'Right to Try' regulations was presented to Parliament today, alongside the Government's response to our recommendations. More here👇

https://t.co/N0XTPI5cHk

[SSAC @The_SSAC]

SSAC's examining Govt's 'Right to Try' proposals following our initial scrutiny of the related draft regulations. Want to find out more? Dr Stephen Brien's letter to @DWPgovuk sets out our early observations & identifies areas for further consideration 👇
https://t.co/73hZ8aXnCs

[SSAC @The_SSAC]

Welcoming Richard and Owen, Dr Stephen Brien commented: "Their impressive skills and diverse viewpoints will enrich our discussions & help us tackle the complex issues that affect so many in society. I look forward to working closely with them as we continue our important work."

[SSAC @The_SSAC]

*New appointments* We are delighted to welcome Richard Machin and Owen McCloskey as new members of #SSAC! We look forward to working with you Richard and Owen!

@RMachinNotts @owenmc24

https://t.co/N7suczN6oi

[SSAC @The_SSAC]

Baroness Sherlock OBE: "Richard & Owen bring a wealth of expertise & fresh perspectives that will strengthen SSAC's ability to provide insightful & balanced advice. Their experience will be invaluable as we continue to shape policies that make a real difference to people’s lives"

[SSAC @The_SSAC]

Our amazing colleague, Carl Emmerson, stands down from the Committee today after almost ten years of service. Thank you Carl - we'll miss you and your invaluable contributions to our work!

[SSAC @The_SSAC]

We bid a sad farewell to our colleague Prof Stephen Hardy who is stepping down from SSAC today as he takes on a new role as Certification Officer. Thank you Stephen - we will miss you and your high-quality contributions to our work. We wish you well in your new role.

[SSAC @The_SSAC]

Our Chair, Dr Stephen Brien - alongside Committee colleagues Bruce Calderwood and Carl Emmerson - gave evidence yesterday to @CommonsWorkPen about the role and work of #SSAC. Want to find out more about what we do? You can watch the session here👇
https://t.co/FwNnD5gFkI

[Work & Pensions Committee @CommonsWorkPen]

Watch live 🔴 https://t.co/aPGRWmq1ED

[Work & Pensions Committee @CommonsWorkPen]

Find out more 👇

https://t.co/n58wOWEVni