Previous edition: 2009.

Includes bibliographical references and index.

Remaining one of the most widely used and highly regarded introductions to the history of British social policy and social ideas, this text is an ideal starting point for anyone interested in how and why Britain created the first Welfare State. It offers the only survey of the whole period, from the late eighteenth century to the present day, now including discussion of the Coalition and Theresa May's early Prime Ministership.