Executive Summary - Focus of this report and methodology

Fairness of the social security system There are two important aspects to consider when assessing the fairness of the social security system for working age adults: the role of contribution and the role of conditionality. [...] The importance of contribution Contribution in the context of social security refers to the idea that the level of fiscal contributions should have some kind of determination over an individual’s entitlement to receive support through the social 11 Building up security system. [...] Yet, the majority of the UK public, and majorities of all voters of major parties, support the idea that the social security system for working age adults should provide support that allows people on low incomes to meet the costs of their living. [...] To ensure digital exclusion is not worsened with the introduction of the Social Security Digital Platform, we recommend that the Government expands the funding for the Help to Claim scheme to provide ongoing support for those utilising the Social Security Digital Platform. [...] However, 20 Executive summary the role of contribution is much more divisive if it comes at the expense of adequacy of benefits, meaning increasing the role of contribution cannot come at the expense of providing a minimum level of support to all households who are failing to meet the cost of living.