Understanding Devolution and Social Policy A Cross UK Comparison

Comparing developments across Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, this textbook explores the scope and use of social policy over the last decade by the devolved administrations.
Students are guided through different policy initiatives undertaken by the devolved administrations, the consequences of enhancing devolved government powers and the divergence resulting from their decisions not to follow changes in policy implemented in England.
This accessible and relatable text enables students to delve into topical social policy issues, identify major influences on social policy developments and understand theories on multi-spatial governance, policy transfer and differential citizenship rights. Key features to support student learning include:
- overview and summary sections to bookend each chapter;
- diagrams, tables, figures and charts;
- reflection exercises and questions;
- recommended reading and resources.
As they discover the impact of the enhancement of devolved powers in each jurisdiction, students will gain a comprehensive and contemporary picture of social policy across the UK.

About the author

Ann Marie Gray is Professor of Social Policy at Ulster University and Co-Director of ARK.

Derek Birrell is Professor of Social Administration at Ulster University.

Product details

• Authors: Derek Birrell, Ann Marie Gray, Alexandra Chapman
• Publisher: Bristol University Press
• Content: Book
• Product form: Paperback / Softback
• Publication date: 01.06.2027
• Subject: Humanities, art, music > Education > Social education, social work; Social sciences, law, business > Political science > Political science and political education
• EAN: 9781447355182
• ISBN: 978-1-4473-5518-2
• Pages: 184
• Series: Understanding Welfare: Social
• Subjects: POLITICAL SCIENCE / Public Policy / Social Policy; Politics / Current Events; POLITICAL SCIENCE / Public Policy / Social Services & Welfare