Fully updated and expanded, the sixth edition of remains the most accessible and comprehensive review of UK and comparative social policy available for undergraduate students. Written and edited by leading experts in the field, this authoritative textbook covers all the perspectives, debates, issues and challenges in both the theory and practice of social policy. The latest edition reflects the most recent developments in the discipline and in social policy-making. New and revised chapters examine critical topics such as the policy agenda of the UK government elected in 2019 and the implications of globalization, climate change, Brexit and the COVID-19 pandemic. A wealth of new and revised illustrative material, including additional problem-centred review and assignment questions, enhance students’ learning and comprehension whilst encouraging them to reflect on and reconsider the issues raised in each social policy discussion. A timely, issue-driven overview for students to draw upon throughout their studies, this acclaimed textbook: is essential reading for all those on Social Policy courses, whether specialising in the subject or studying it as part of another programme across the social sciences at undergraduate or postgraduate level.