PolicyWorld_Template:Layout 1 29/9/08 09:37 Page 1

PolicyWorld AUTUMN 2008

NEWSLETTER OF T HE SOCIAL POLICYA SSOCIATION

INSIDE:

I Social policy in Taiwan

I Nicholas Timmins takes over as SPA Chair

I The role of service users in research

I Polly Toynbee talks about her new book Unjust Rewards Professor Kuo-yu Wang writes a history of

the Taiwanese Association for Social Welfare ISSN 1745-6320 PolicyWorld_Template:Layout 1 29/9/08 09:37 Page 2 PolicyWorld_Template:Layout 1 29/9/08 09:37 Page 3

PolicyWorld PolicyWorld

Welcome to the Autumn 2008 edition of PolicyWorld. I am excited to unveil a refreshed look for the magazine, which is now entering its fifth year in a full colour magazine format. This edition marks the return to three editions each year, so expect your next copy in Spring 2009!

Read on for news about SPA members' work on user involvement (page 10), knowledge transfer (page 11) and research ethics guidelines (page 8). In addition, there is a report on social policy in Taiwan on pages 16 and 17 to accompany Simon Prideaux's account of his visit to the International Symposium on Social Policy in East Asia. Outgoing chair Saul Becker shares his views on the SPA's recent progress on page 9, while on page 22 two SPA members share their memories of comedian Linda Smith, who entertained delegates at the 2000 conference with a milestone stand-up routine.

More than 20 contributors have been involved in the publication and I thank them all for giving their time and energy.

Please do not hesitate to contact me at [email protected] with ideas or suggestions for future editions. Contributions of all kinds are welcome, including letters or opinion pieces. Contents

I do hope you enjoy the following pages. 4-8 SPA news roundup: Best wishes Chair's introduction New SPA president Kate Merriam Scottish social policy network [email protected] SPA women's network The ESRC and the SPA Ethics guidelines for social policy research PolicyWorld is published three times a year. Letters, opinions, Membership report suggestions and contributions for future editions are welcomed. Please contact Kate Merriam at [email protected] for more information. 9 An interview with Saul Becker

Editor: Print Designer: 10 Peter Dwyer: User involvement seminar Kate Merriam Nick Hunt report [email protected] The Lavenham Press 47 Water St., Lavenham Suffolk CO10 9RN 11 Caroline Glendinning: Promoting Tel: 01787 247 436 knowledge transfer [email protected]

12-13 SPA Conference and Awards

The Social Policy Association (SPA) is a professional association open for membership to 14-15 Postgraduate section academics and practitioners working in social policy, and to others with an interest in UK and international social policy. The association hosts 16-17 Social policy in Taiwan an annual conference and funds smaller seminar events, as well as producing journals and other publications. In addition, the association's 18-19 SWAP executive committee represents the interests of the membership in communication with other professional and academic bodies. The annual SPA awards are presented at the conference, including a lifetime 22-23 Books: Unjust rewards by Polly Toynbee achievement award and best newcomer award. There is also a thriving SPA postgraduate network with a dedicated annual postgraduate and Driving Miss Smith by Warren Lakin conference and regular seminars. More information is available at www.social-policy.com.

www.social-policy.com AUTUMN 2008 PolicyWorld 3 PolicyWorld_Template:Layout 1 29/9/08 09:37 Page 4

SPA News

Chair’s Introduction Caroline Glendinning

I am honoured and delighted to have been elected Chair of the Social Policy Association from 2008-2011 – and also rather daunted by the prospect of taking over from Saul Becker, whose energy and enthusiasm will be very hard to match.

First, a bit of background with wider academic and policy developments considering the implications for Social Policy. for those who don't know outside my immediate research area. The I hope that our renewed relationship with the me. I've been an SPA friendliness and informality of SPA events of ESRC [see page 7] will be maintained in the member from sometime in course makes this both easy and fun. form of regular meetings with the SPA Executive. the 1970s (the exact date I will also be exploring with the Executive is lost in the mists of time) While I am privileged to be taking over as whether the SPA can become more active in and was also Secretary Chair of the SPA at a time when the promoting social policy research and from 1998 to 2001. I'm organisation is in very good shape, there are ‘engaging’ Government, other organisations currently Director of nevertheless some clear priorities ahead. One and the wider public [see page 11]. Research (Adults, Older People and Carers) in of these will be to ensure we have the new the Social Policy Research Unit at the University arrangements for paying subscriptions online in In the meantime, if you have any concerns or of York, where I started my academic career in place, ready for members to renew their suggestions of issues that you think SPA should the early 1970s and returned to work again in subscriptions at the end of the year. The RAE be aware of, please don’t hesitate to contact me. 2004. As an applied researcher rather than a will also be announced in December and we more conventional academic, I've always will be looking carefully at the Social Policy Caroline Glendinning valued being involved in the SPA – and results. We will also be keeping a close eye on Professor of Social Policy particularly attending the annual conferences – the development of the RAE’s successor, the University of York because of the opportunities to keep in touch Research Excellence Framework, and [email protected] SPA Executive Committee 2008-09

Chair Meredith Beaumont Steve McKay Karen Rowlingson Caroline Glendinning University of Nottingham University of Birmingham University of Birmingham University of York [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] Rachael Dobson Kate Merriam Kirstein Rummery University of Leeds Policy World editor University of Stirling Vice Chair [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] Nick Ellison University of Leeds Pete Dwyer Jan Pahl Christine Skinner [email protected] Nottingham Trent University University of Kent University of York [email protected] [email protected] [email protected]

Honorary Secretary Kevin Farnsworth Catherine Palmer Adam Whitworth Tess Ridge University of Sheffield Durham University University of Oxford University of Bath [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] Jim Goddard Richard Parry Emma Wincup University of Bradford University of Edinburgh University of Leeds Treasurer [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] Rana Jawad University of Warwick Chris Holden Simon Prideaux Sharon Wright [email protected] London School of Hygiene and University of Leeds University of Stirling Tropical Medicine [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] Jackie Rafferty Nicola Yeates Majella Kilkey University of Southampton The Open University University of Hull [email protected] [email protected] [email protected]

4 PolicyWorld AUTUMN 2008 www.social-policy.com PolicyWorld_Template:Layout 1 29/9/08 09:38 Page 5

SPA News

Introducing the President... Nicholas Timmins

Nicholas Timmins was recently invited to assume presidency of the Social Policy Association by the then Chair Saul Becker, following the end of Polly Toynbee's tenure in the role.

His acceptance was received with pleasure by the committee, who described his writing as both informative and thorough - as well as well thumbed!

Public Policy Editor of the Financial Times since SPA Executive Committee 2008-09 1996, Timmins is also the author of The Five giants of the Welfare State, a book which begins with Beveridge, examining the creation of the Welfare State and following the path of welfare provision right into New Labour's first term (2001 edition). Writing about his reasons for beginning the book, Timmins states: "A further motivation to write was anger - anger that it is impossible now to travel on the London underground or walk the streets of our big cities without finding beggars, or, more often, without beggars finding us. That, in my lifetime, did not happen before the late 1980s. . Then - and despite that anger - there was the perverse need to declare that, even after well over a decade of ideological assault, the welfare state still exists."

Before he worked at the Financial Times, Timmins worked at the Independent newspaper from its founding and for ten years afterward. During this time, he was health and social services correspondent, political correspondent and public policy editor. He has also worked for The Times, the Press Association and Nature.

Nicholas Timmins presented the SPA Awards at this year's annual conference in Edinburgh.

"I thought he was entertaining and very well informed about social policy issues," said Majella Kilkey, who attended the dinner.

www.social-policy.com AUTUMN 2008 PolicyWorld 5 PolicyWorld_Template:Layout 1 29/9/08 09:38 Page 6

SPA News

Tackling These are interesting times for the development of social poverty, policies in Scotland. The establishment of a coalition government led by the Scottish Nationalist Party (SNP) in 2007 inequality has been widely interpreted as representing a watershed in Scottish politics. and However, both policymakers and policy The event was an outstanding success, attracting deprivation analysts are stepping into unknown territory, over 30 people. Importantly, there was a good particularly in relation to approaches to social representation from academics, third sector welfare. Having never previously held power organisations and the Scottish Government in Scotland at national level, the SNP have greater freedom (including the civil servants involved in the to establish new traditions in policy making development of the SNP’s anti-poverty strategy). and implementation. During 2007, there were The seminar proved to be a very few clues as to the directions in which SNP encouraging development in the social policy might develop, not least of establishment of all because the party do not appear to relationships between the have a cohesive ideological position A pivotal Scottish Government, the (apart from nationalism) that could third sector and guide their social policy priorities. time for the academic researchers within Scottish Higher The publication of a consultation development of Education. A range of document in spring 2008 therefore Scottish social papers presented from represented a major milestone in the all the participant development of an SNP approach to policy groups gave much food social welfare. The Scottish Social for thought in the new Policy Network collaborated with the Open environment created by the University and others (see below) to facilitate Scottish Government. open discussion of the document, Taking Forward the Government Economic Strategy: A The Deputy Director, Social Inclusion, for the Discussion Paper on Tackling Poverty, Inequality Scottish Government emphasised the role for and Deprivation in Scotland (http://cci.scot. innovatory ‘blue sky’ thinking within the new nhs.uk/Publications/2008/02/01150409/0), Government while academic speakers focused at a dedicated seminar. upon the need for a specifically redistributive policy agenda. Speakers from the third sector The seminar was held in the Open University in located the need to develop strategies for Scotland office in Edinburgh on April 25, 2008. strengthening existing public support for anti- The main aim of the seminar was to provide the poverty initiatives as a key element in the opportunity for a critical discussion of key success of future developments. principles, priorities and policies to tackle poverty, inequality and deprivation in Scotland. In sum, the seminar proved highly successful in This seminar was supported financially by the encouraging deeper dialogue and collaboration Open University, the Scottish Poverty Information between the three constituent groups at a pivotal Unit at Glasgow Caledonian University and the time for the development of Scottish social Scottish Institute for Research in Economics. The policy. event was also supported by Child Poverty Action Group in Scotland. Dr Gerry Mooney and Dr Sharon Wright Scottish Social Policy Network

Social Policy Digest was launched in 2003 to provide a regularly updated, Open access: fully searchable summary of policy developments and research findings across the whole range of social policy. Social Policy Digest The Journal of Social Policy carries high quality articles on all aspects of social policy in an international context. It places particular emphasis upon articles which seek to contribute to debates on the future direction of social Social Policy Digest Online is now an 'open access' resource. It is no policy, to present new empirical data, to advance theories, or to analyse longer necessary to have a Journal of Social Policy (JSP) subscription in issues in the making and implementation of social policies. order to read the digest via the JSP homepage. Simply visit http://journals.cambridge.org/jid_JSP JSP and Social Policy Digest are part of the 'Social Policy Package', which and click on the orange button. also includes the journal Social Policy and Society.

Ken Jones and Fran Bennett are editors of the Social Policy Di gest.

6 PolicyWorld AUTUMN 2008 www.social-policy.com PolicyWorld_Template:Layout 1 29/9/08 09:38 Page 7

SPA News

The women and social policy special interest (WSPSI) group was set up a number of years ago by the Social Policy The future Association (SPA) as one of a number of special interest groups that offer a space for SPA members to share ideas and of the information on specialist topics. As well as holding a meeting at the SPA annual conference every year, the WSPSI group hosts a JISCMAIL mailbase that interested members can join as women and a forum for informal information sharing and discussion. social policy

Mainstream social science subjects have long However, times have changed, and there is now debated issues within a gender context. Given the much more explicit awareness of the differential specialist influence of feminism, debate and commentary on life experiences of women and men. We women within the social policy context is relatively therefore arrive back at the question as to well developed. You only need to whether the time is right for the focus of the group quickly glance at the WSPSI group to be broadened to take a gender undergraduate textbooks perspective. on social policy to see that feminist Is the The view from the small number of list commentators have members who have contributed to this As a way forward, the WSPSI group offers us a contributed time right for debate is that this would be a positive forum to continue discussion of these issues. We extremely valuable move. Indeed, there are other interesting do perhaps, as one list member suggests, need debates on the the focus of questions that arise alongside this. The to organise an event to discuss these issues differential the WSPSI first is where debate on men and further. Funding to organise and host such an experiences of masculinities might best be incorporated event is perhaps the next issue to be explored. I women and men in group? into social policy debates? While this is a would welcome suggestions and comment from relation to issues such question that we need to consider further, a SPA members via the list, which you can join, as: citizenship, poverty gender group would be a useful place to leave and post to via the following link: and low income, caring and engage with questions of masculinity. A further www.jiscmail.ac.uk/lists/ benefit claiming. I don’t think it is particularly issue relates to questions around transgender. women-and-social-policy.html. contentious to say that historically there was a Again a gender and social policy group could need for a woman focused space within social potentially incorporate a focus on transgender as Suzi Macpherson policy debates. part of its remit. Women’s special interest group convenor The ESRC and the SPA: working together

During the 2008 SPA Conference, members of interagency initiative aimed at promoting a and the SPA's Caroline Glendinning asked if the the SPA executive committee met with Joy Todd, fundamental step change in breadth, depth and ESRC could look at providing some funding in discipline lead for social policy and social work quality of the UK research base in social work this area. Joy explained that the ESRC is under at the ESRC. The meeting was intended to renew and social care.” governmental pressure to ensure that research is a positive working relationship and to define having a real impact, so financing dissemination ways in which contact and communication can Committee members raised discussion about and knowledge transfer has become much more be developed and improved between the two filling a gap felt by many early career social of a priority. The committee was pleased at this organisations. policy academics, between post-doctoral funding news, and Kirstein Rummery added a request for and research grants that are aimed at full-time the ESRC to consider making available some Joy presented a paper that highlighted current lecturers. In response, Joy mentioned the ESRC’s resources for junior level knowledge transfer and social policy representation on ESRC committees small grants scheme, which is appropriate for dissemination to practitioners and policymakers and boards, including the Virtual College. The non-tenure applicants. The SPA’s Kirstein as well as to those with senior fellowships. report also tabled social policy grant applications Rummery asked whether there is potential for a 2- and awards including comparison of 3 year fellowship to be introduced to bridge the It was agreed that a general meeting between ‘performance’ against other subjects, detailed funding gap between post-doctoral research and Joy Todd and representatives of the SPA should career prospects for junior academics, and gave a full-time post. be held each year at the SPA conference. a summary of postgraduate awards. Catherine Palmer will continue to act as the main Postgraduate links were also discussed and both point contact with the ESRC, on behalf of the In addition, Joy reported on the ESRC’s recent Joy Todd and the SPA’s postgraduate SPA. appointment of a Strategic Advisor for social representative Adam Whitworth expressed work and social care research – Dr Elaine enthusiasm in re-establishing ESRC/SPA linked Readers are encouraged to contact Catherine Palmer Sharland from the University of Sussex – who events over the next 3-5 years. in this role at: [email protected]. took up this role in September 2008 and will lead on “the development of a national The subject of knowledge transfer was raised, Kate Merriam

www.social-policy.com AUTUMN 2008 PolicyWorld 7 PolicyWorld_Template:Layout 1 29/9/08 09:38 Page 8

SPA News

The SPA Executive has set up a working group to develop a set Research of guidelines on research ethics for social policy researchers.

ethics The purpose of the guidelines is to complement Following the seminar held in January 2008 in existing ethical guidance such as that produced Manchester to discuss the issues involved in by the Social Research Association and to drawing up such a set of guidelines, the working guidelines provide a framework to help SPA members group issued a first draft of the proposed identify and address the ethical issues which guidelines on the SPA website in May 2008 with may arise in the conduct of social policy an invitation to members to comment. Half a for social research. The guidelines are not intended to be dozen responses were received providing prescriptive, but rather to raise awareness valuable comments on specific issues of wording among SPA members of their responsibilities to and on points which require further clarification. policy different constituencies when conducting The principal focus of the more general research, to offer recommendations to members comments was on the issue of harm to research on how to address these and to encourage and participants, and on problems in relation to promote continuing discussion of how ethical confidentiality and anonymity when researching dilemmas in research can most satisfactorily be institutions where it may be difficult to disguise resolved. the identity of key individuals. Tensions around data protection and data sharing were also The issues with which social policy is concerned identified as an important issue which the means that social policy research has four guidelines need to address more fully. features, which differentiate it to some extent from other kinds of research in the social The draft is currently being revised and it is sciences: it tends to address both academic and hoped to have a final version available by the policy/practice questions; it engages with users end of the year. of welfare services; it works with a range of disciplines and research methodologies; and it Karen Clarke has a responsibility to disseminate results to a SPA Executive Committee 2002-08 range of audiences, both academic and University of Manchester policy/practice.

Current and new SPA subscription rates Annual income Current rates New rates Less than £15,000 £18 £20 £15,000 – £29,999 £34 £40 SPA £30,000 – £49,000 £62 £70 membership £50,000 or more £90 £100

money than other professional societies in The SPA Executive Committee is keen to related disciplines, particularly at the bottom end provide an efficient and responsive of the income distribution. service to members but we have Increase in continued to face problems with standing subscription The SPA Exec also agreed, at the AGM, to orders and the bureaucracy they entail. consider some of the issues around the possible rates agreed introduction of an ‘institutional’ membership We are very sorry for the inconvenience this has category. caused some members and are currently exploring whether an online system of membership payment and renewal – such as a The benefits of membership: Paypal service - could help solve these I Journal of Social Policy The 2008 Annual General Meeting (AGM) problems. agreed for us to explore this further and I Social Policy and Society journal implement if suitable. I A copy of Social Policy Review I Policy World - the SPA's newsletter, The AGM also agreed an increase in Paypal subscription rates (see table). Subscription rates produced three times a year have not been increased for 5 years, despite I Reduced subscription rates for Global increases in printing and other costs. In addition, Social Policy journal service an online payment system would carry new costs. I Access to the online SPA membership possible database SPA membership is, and would still be, I Reduced rates for the annual conference considerably cheaper and better value for

8 PolicyWorld AUTUMN 2008 www.social-policy.com PolicyWorld_Template:Layout 1 29/9/08 09:39 Page 9

Interview

Collegiate working, breadth of focus and “The SPA – I hope - represents the interests of a a long list of successes comprise the large and diverse group of people who call ‘Servants Social Policy Association’s (SPA) last four themselves ‘Social Policy’,” Saul says when I ask years, according to Saul Becker. His term why he believes the association is important. as SPA Chair ended at the Annual “Having a body to represent those views to a of the General Meeting in June, after four years wider audience – the ESRC, the Academy, at the head of the committee table and research funding bodies, government and others membership’ an astonishing 13 years around it. I – in an effective way is very important. asked him to look back on hundreds of hours of work for the association and to “Our work on the Executive is done in a recall how it all began. collegiate way and that’s how I like to work. I was there to chair [the committee] and – through “I was approached by Pete Alcock and Gary that – to serve the Exec and the members. I like Craig about 13 years ago. They asked if I’d to think that the Executive is a servant of the agree to edit the newsletter, which wasn’t very membership although we do have to take the long at that stage. I said yes and was co-opted lead on many issues and initiatives. onto the Exec. I never left!” Interview: Saul recounted multiple achievements and progressions within the association during the Saul Becker “The growing last four years. Some of these are detailed in the internationalism of boxes here: the executive has “There was “The postgraduate been a highlight. “Giving the SPA a link excellent Through the network development into the world of high deserves mention. These collegiality on the international officers quality journalism Exec. People do [Nicola Yeates and students are to some through presidents like extent our future and really want to work Chris Holden] we are Polly [Toynbee] and together.” helping other anything we can do has Nick [Timmins] has “Social Policy “The SPA has to be a good thing.” been a good move associations overseas Review has now maintained “We did well in the as well as learning forward.” been integrated and increased from them.” recent RAE [Research Assessment Exercise] into the a buoyant “Policy World was membership membership” “The development of the process [for panel selection] and most of professionalised: it’s a package.” Understanding Welfare good, relevant our nominations for series has been a publication, which the panel were uncertainty about undergraduate courses’ future, highlight. There are now takes us in a different more than 20 textbooks accepted.” the membership may change to reflect changes direction to journals” in the teaching of undergraduate Social Policy published or in press, and and changes in research agendas. It may not more are commissioned though: it depends on what the current balance each year. It also sells The grind of progress was frustrated in two ways is between research and teaching members. really well.” for the ex-chair: bureaucracy and funding. Third party deadlines for the association to consult “I hope that in ten years – when the SPA turns with its membership and respond he admits 50 – we will still be an organisation that Saul created SPA News, which rapidly became made Saul’s “blood boil” on occasion, while the represents its members, is international looking, a sizeable thrice-yearly vehicle for inter-university constant cycle of administration and decision- and represents both research and teaching discussion and debate, including features like making can prevent the committee from setting interests.” Personal Choice – an academic’s selection of its own priorities, he added. one text that had influenced their thinking – and Do you have any advice for your successor? Letter from..., which gave an international Although the association has increased its perspective in each issue. You can find SPA membership base, the Nottingham-based “Caroline Glendinning doesn’t need any advice News from 2001 on the back issues page of professor regrets that membership numbers did from me! One of the first academic papers I was www.policy-world.com. not significantly increase during his time as ever invited to give [the sixth of a current tally of chair. c150 papers] was at a conference in November “I edited SPA News for six years and really 1988 organised by Caroline and Jane Miller. I enjoyed it. Some issues had as many as 40 “We began a campaign to reach 1000 gave a paper on women’s poverty and social contributors and we calculated that at one time, members, but weren’t able to meet it. Maybe services based on my PhD. I’ve known Jane and towards one sixth of my year was being devoted there is just a natural [maximum] level. I think we Caroline ever since, and Caroline and my own to SPA News.” could do a lot more as an association with more research interests overlap in the areas of resources and a higher membership.” informal family care, social and health services. Eventually he was tempted away from a job which involved regularly stuffing 500 newsletters And the future? “It’s not a good idea for predecessors to be in into envelopes by hand and became Series “There is uncertainty about what undergraduate the shadows. I wish everyone in the Exec and Editor for the new Understanding Welfare book Social Policy is going to look like, as Universities the Association well and hope that they continue series. Then, when Alan Deacon retired as Chair continue to find it hard to recruit. I think Social to flourish.” of the SPA Executive Committee in 2004, Saul Policy as a subject will always do well at was asked to step into the role. postgraduate level but, because of this Interview by Kate Merriam

www.social-policy.com AUTUMN 2008 PolicyWorld 9 PolicyWorld_Template:Layout 1 29/9/08 09:39 Page 10

Seminar Report

continues to be contentious and “raises strong stated that “sometimes user The roles of feelings and strong anxieties” within both the user involvement is not about and academic communities. In contrasting two collaboration but differing approaches to user involvement (i.e. a confrontation” and spoke of welfare top down, ‘managerialist/consumerist’ model the need for service user centred on intelligence gathering/market research groups to retain the right to activity and a democratic model developed by be critical voices outside the mainstream as, and services service users organisations which focuses on the when, they deemed applicable. This was redistribution of power) he argued strongly in followed by a presentation entitled ‘Involving favour of the latter and spoke of the need to homelessness service users in tenancy users and move beyond the tokenism that certain types of sustainability research’. Here the three speakers user consultation may entail. Service user academic, (Graham Bowpitt), service provider involvement, he argued, is linked to more representative, (Rachel Harding) and service user academics fundamental debates about the inclusiveness and (Neil Stillwell) recounted their experiences of purpose of social research that must be taken working together on a project to evaluate support seriously. Beresford concluded by stressing two services provided by the Framework Housing in research, points: First, that the time was now right for “a Association, Nottingham. Following a discussion systematic and coherent evaluation of user of the limited extent to which service users were involvement in research”. Second, that more involved in establishing the remit of the project meaningful engagement by the Social Policy under consideration, Neil Stillwell spoke of the policy and Association with service user organisations was positive effects that his involvement as a long overdue. researcher on the project had on his life. Whilst he was clear that he had enjoyed taking an practice Saul Becker’s presentation drew on a recently active part in the research process, he also completed study (Becker, Bryman and Sempik warned against making assumptions that all (2006) Defining ‘Quality’ in Social Policy service users would want to be involved to the On Wednesday 2 April 2008, Nottingham Research) and focused on researchers’ same extent. Much depended on the individual Trent University hosted a day long perceptions of service user involvement in social and he pointed out that it was important that seminar: The Roles of Welfare Services policy research. He began by highlighting the individual service users retained control over the Users and Academics in Research, Policy confusion that the term ‘user’ often brings about. level and type of their involvement in research. and Practice. Depending on a particular context, he pointed out that users may variously refer to service The day concluded with an open discussion in Thirty two people attended, two thirds of providers/administrators, academics, clients of which all participants were invited to consider the participants were members of the academic welfare service or even the general public. Within ways in which the SPA might best take forward community with the rest drawn from various user the ranks of social policy researchers his study service user involvement in the future. It was communities/groups. In seeking to explore the found four types of response in respect of service agreed that the following four points should be roles and relationships of welfare service users user involvement. 'Advocates' believed that discussed with the Social Policy Association and academics within contemporary social collaboration with service users reconnected (SPA) executive committee. First, that user policy, the day had three linked aims: researchers to the lived experience of welfare involvement be mainstreamed at the next SPA service users and enabled research to get to the annual conference with a speaker(s) on the issue I To promote dialogue between welfare heart of pressing policy issues. ‘Cautious at plenary level. Second, as the cost of joining service users organisations and the social advocates’ were broadly supportive of welfare the SPA makes the association inaccessible to policy academic community. service user research but were also looking for many users reliant on benefits, the SPA executive I To consider the roles of welfare service answers to some of the challenges and questions committee should consider a lower rate of users and academics in the commissioning that service user involvement present. In contrast, membership subscription to encourage welfare and production of social research. ‘agnostics’ and ‘adversaries’ (a significant service users to join. Third, that the SPA (possibly I To consider the future relationship between minority of respondents in Becker et al’s study) in conjunction with the JUC) should publish a one welfare service user organisations and the questioned the assumed benefits of service user off monograph or edited pamphlet about the Social Policy academic community, in involvement, often pointing to the lack of ethical and practical issues of service user particular the Social Policy Association. representative samples in much user led research. involvement in research. Some participants Reflecting on discussions from the floor, Becker believed that this would duplicate several existing Discussions around the above themes open up a concluded by agreeing with Beresford’s earlier texts (e.g. Alison Faulkner 2004; 2005) and that variety of issues for further debate. These include, assertion about the need to fund a systematic another was not required. Fourth, that a special the ways in which we may seek to understand study to explore the value of service user interest group on service user involvement be and explore the social world, the notion of research. established within the Social Policy Association. ‘expertise’, the validity of standpoint knowledge and, importantly, the issue of differential power, Following lunch, presentations were given by two Thanks are due to all those who attended the influence and control in the research process and collaborative projects involving service users, seminar and a special mention must go to Sandra how this may impact on policy and people’s lives. academics and service providers. Initially, Odell who provided administrative support for the speakers from the Care Leavers Association, UK event. Finally, I would like to thank the Social In the morning session, Peter Beresford, a well (Vicky Hall and Jim Goddard) highlighted their Policy Association and the Policy Oriented Social known advocate of welfare service user organisation’s ongoing work with adults who had Sciences Research Group at Nottingham Trent empowerment, spoke first and explored the previously been in public care as children; University which provided the money to enable methodological and practical issues that user particularly the right of individuals as adults to the seminar to take place. involvement in social policy research entail. access their personal records held by the various Whilst recognising that user involvement was in agencies that had cared for them as children. A Peter Dwyer some ways coming to be seen as a “virtuous key issue raised here was the need for service The Graduate School activity – must do activity”, Professor Beresford user groups to retain their independence. Jim Business Law and Social Sciences was clear that user involvement in research Goddard made an important point when he Nottingham Trent University

10 PolicyWorld AUTUMN 2008 www.social-policy.com PolicyWorld_Template:Layout 1 29/9/08 09:42 Page 11

PolicyWorld

The report drew on interviews, website Developing reviews and discussions with over 30 learned societies, including the dialogue: SPA. It found that patterns of knowledge transfer knowledge and public engagement are highly variable transfer, among learned societies, although public overall there is a great deal and variety of practical engagement experience. Not surprisingly, the resources (the time and and the SPA efforts of members and staff) that learned societies can devote to knowledge transfer activities (through special interest groups, as authors and editors, speakers and I Responding to policy, public and practice spokespersons, for example) have issues a major influence on levels of activity. I Allocating dedicated resources and organisational responsibilities for public Learned societies engagement and knowledge transfer have much to contribute to Particularly compared with other relatively small enhancing learned societies, the SPA already undertakes wider significant knowledge transfer activities (our understanding journals and other publications are good of society, examples) and our members engage extensively including with a wide range of professional, policy and specialist lay audiences as part of routine everyday areas of practice. However, over the coming year, the knowledge, Executive will be looking at ways in which we distinctive can strengthen our profile in these areas yet perspectives and specific further. This aim has been given further impetus methods and skills. They are by a new initiative, launched by Professor Paul independent of business and government Wiles, Government Chief Social Scientist, to interests; committed to rigorous standards of increase the profile of social science research This summer saw the research; have access to an unprecedented within Government. The initiative builds on both publication of a report, range of expertise and knowledge among their the ESRC/AcSS report and a recent report by funded jointly by the members; and, in some instances, close the Cabinet Office Strategy Unit Realising Economic and Social relationships with particular practitioner Britain’s Potential (www.cabinetoffice.gov.uk). Research Council (ESRC) communities. However, there was a widely held and the Academy of Social view that the RAE had had a seriously An initial meeting with Professor Wiles in July, at Sciences (AcSS), into the detrimental effect on knowledge transfer and which AcSS, SPA and several other learned role that learned societies public engagement, by downgrading the societies were represented, explored a number such as SPA could play in perceived value of these activities. of options for developing relationships between promoting greater use and learned societies and the Government’s Social awareness of social science The report recommended closer collaboration Research Service (GSR). Follow-up activities are (www.acss.org.uk/activities). between the ESRC, AcSS and learned societies being taken forward by Professor Philip Cowley, ‘Knowledge transfer’ is defined to develop a clear and practical agenda in the who has been seconded by the ESRC to the as ‘a set of processes aimed at areas of knowledge transfer and public Government Social Research Unit, to develop transferring knowledge from engagement. For learned societies, additional ways of integrating academic research more researchers to users; ‘public specific recommendations included: closely with policymaking. Given the policy and engagement’ refers to the Strengthening or extending activities in practice focus of so many of our members’ involvement of specialists (such knowledge transfer and public engagement, activities, SPA has a lot to contribute to this as academics and researchers) including: initiative and we will be taking advantage of with non-specialists (such as opportunities for continuing involvement. policy makers, practitioners and I Developing dialogues between the wider public) to promote researchers, non-academic practitioners Professor Caroline Glendinning flows of knowledge and and the wider public Chair. SPA enhance understanding.

www.social-policy.com AUTUMN 2008 PolicyWorld 11 PolicyWorld_Template:Layout 1 29/9/08 09:42 Page 12

International Social Policy

Taiwanese Association for Social Welfare: An organization with vision but without political muscle

The main purpose of this introductory in 1989 with the primary purpose of balancing Council for their research projects. Furthermore, article on the Taiwanese Association for rural and urban development in Taiwan. Back all the DoSW and TASW researchers have been Social Welfare (TASW) is to provide a brief then, the Graduate Institute of Social Welfare involved in government policy analysis projects history of the role the association has (one of the original five major departments that during the last two decades. As a result of this played in recent social policy formation in the university created) was responsible for research oriented approach to the study of social Taiwan. TASW was officially established in cultivating the future social policy specialists of policies, the DoSW and TASW have become 1992 and, from its inception, has been Taiwan. From the beginning, the department leading and unique policy research bodies in based in the Department of Social tried to take a different approach and vision of Taiwan. Welfare at the National Chung Cheng social welfare policy by integrating a variety of University in Chiayi. Throughout its social science disciplines and by taking a more Throughout the years, the development of TASW history, the goal of this association has comprehensive view of policy analysis and reflected the trend of policy debates in Taiwan. been to operate as a major and critique. In the early stages, the major policy concerns of influential social policy think tank. As the the time were the debates on the pension system title of this article indicates, TASW has Because of its close relationship with the DoSW, and the national health insurance system of been relatively successful in its ambitions TASW has also played a policy formation role in Taiwan. In this respect, TASW, in 1994, hosted yet still has not had an overwhelming last two decades. On a daily basis, the DoSW a series of pension policy forums in Taipei and political say (at least visibly) in the has focused the attention of TASW on eventually drafted its own old age pension shaping of final policy outcomes in researching a variety of policy areas concerning legislation. Unfortunately, however, the proposed Taiwan. Taiwan. Such research includes the examination legislation was not implemented. Nevertheless, of early social security measures, the health the major conclusions from these pension forums History insurance system, long-term care studies, welfare were brought to the attention of the government Initially, TASW was established amidst the finances and poverty studies. More recently, to the effect that subsequent pension policies historic social policy reforms of the 1990s and studies have focused on childcare, gender, the contained significant elements of their findings. benefited immensely from the positive input and welfare involvement of non-profit organizations In particular, policies relating to the financial support given by the Department of Social and disability issues alike. Consequently, over scheme and the social insurance principle amply Welfare (DoSW) at National Chung Cheng 75% of researchers in the DoSW and TASW demonstrated the input and debates of the University. Indeed, the university was established have received grants from the National Science pension forums. Arguably, it is through such The International Symposium on Social Policy in East Asia: International innovation and comparative perspective

The Taiwanese Association for Social Welfare Department of Social Welfare, National Chung-Cheng University, Taiwan

12 PolicyWorld AUTUMN 2008 www.social-policy.com PolicyWorld_Template:Layout 1 29/9/08 09:42 Page 13

International Social Policy

events and discussions that TASW has been able limitations that may have hindered Taiwanese Certainly, the example of pension policy to take a relatively invisible but vital contribution anti-poverty policies in the past. explicitly demonstrates the difficulties to Taiwanese social policy. encountered when attempting to implement a In 1992, prior to these pension forums, TASW Naturally, the evidence and understanding of more equitable range of welfare policies. held its first conference on Social Security to these local concerns have not been undertaken Political pragmatism, in the guise of vote celebrate its establishment. Since then, the in splendid isolation. They have, indeed, grown winning issues, tends to be myopic by nature. A association has held yearly conferences on out of the inspiration of social policies in the broader, more impartial stance distanced from numerous social policy issues pertinent to West, but the data and the analysis in this case electioneering needs to be taken. Granted, using Taiwan. Issues surrounding health insurance, has been locally focused and researched: so too welfare policies as political tools does work in long-term care, social care, poverty, child have the proposed solutions and policies. As a the short-term but in the long run, when either allowance, social security, pensions and consequence, it is the firm belief of TASW that the DPP or KMT have come into power, it has international comparative topics on welfare have policy solutions can only work when a thorough proven difficult for them to live up to their all been prominent features of TASW understanding of the Taiwanese local context is passionate yet irrational policy promises. conferences. Each year, the TASW chooses a achieved. Only then can the policies and lessons different conference theme and issues a call for from elsewhere be adopted, adapted and The reliance on short-term goals has also papers from scholars, academic researchers, integrated into the local context. affected the status of TASW. Poignantly, the and different professionals both locally and board members of TASW, with their long-term internationally. The annual meeting has thus Policy and Politics vision of a more comprehensive welfare system, become the most important annual conference Over the years, the board members of TASW have never been invited to join the Cabinet or on welfare policy issues in Taiwan and each have taken the position to keep politics out of any other significant mechanism of governance year it draws around 200 plus delegates for the policy debates even though the promise of new over last two decades. Yet it is expected that any conference. welfare policies have always been used as substantial research on welfare policy issues has powerful but disposable political tool by to enlist at least one researcher from TASW or The board members of TASW firmly believe that Taiwanese politicians during political campaigns. DoSW to either participate in the research or at social policy has its own unique characteristics The worst example of which was represented in least endorse the legitimacy of the work. within an individual country. Problems, therefore, the fairly recent promises of pension reform. In Overall, however, the board members of TASW cannot be solved solely by an uncritical and 1994, during the Taiwanese election, DPP are still convinced that being able to exercise a uninformed translation of policies or programmes candidates used the political promise of old age more prolonged and lasting influence is more from another country which may have developed allowances to gain support from old aged effective than a short-term political ‘soundbite’ its social policies on the basis of a different farmers who had not been covered by any state for the press. The association’s record of socio-economic context. Social policies have to pension scheme at that time. Such political use devotion to the study of social policy in Taiwan account for the social and cultural uniqueness of of social welfare policies proved effective for the over the last two decades bears ample testament the individual country concerned. For instance, DPP in the subsequent election. Yet the overly to that. History will stand with us and, over time, TASW has devoted much of its energy in pragmatic political use of welfare policy issues it is hoped that this history will enable TASW to research designed to combat poverty in Taiwan. to please voters by both KMT and DPP has made make Taiwan a better place for all to live in. Internationally, many of you may not have heard it harder for Taiwan to establish a more effective much about this work, but locally these studies pensions system and a more comprehensive Kuo-yu Wang, have made a substantial contribution in terms of system of welfare in general over the last two Professor and Library Director understanding how and what is relevant for the decades or so. Concentration upon one issue of formulation of a poverty line to measure the welfare—in this case pensions—may win votes, Department of Social Welfare extent of poverty in Taiwan. In addition, TASW’s but it also has the negative effect of taking finite National Chung Cheng University, efforts have also helped to explain and, resources away from other areas of social Min-hsiung, Chiayi, Taiwan hopefully, will help to overcome many structural welfare.

As part of the SPA executive, I stepped in at the last minute to attend the focused welfare regimes’. Concerns were also raised about the use of non- annual conference held by the Taiwanese Association for Social Welfare profit organisations and the lack of long-term care insurance for everyone. (TASW) at the National Chung Cheng University in Chiayi, Taiwan. In particular, I was asked to present to an ‘International Symposium on Social As you would expect, the two days of the conference demonstrated that Policy in East Asia’ entitled ‘International Innovation and Comparative East Asia is not homogenous in terms of its welfare regimes. It was clear Perspectives’. This well organised conference took place on the 23 and 24 from the debates that Japan, South Korea and Taiwan are taking their own of May this year and I was asked to present my thoughts about New separate paths to achieving greater welfare provision. Possible solutions to Labour’s social policies and, more importantly, to help facilitate reciprocal the shared problems and tensions faced in East Asia ranged from the arrangements between the SPA and TASW. Indeed, reciprocal agreements National Basic Livelihood Security Act in South Korea and Healthcare - such as SPA members being offered members’ rates to attend future TASW Insurance in Taiwan to calls from academics for the state to balance private conferences and vice versa - are now being set in place. Hopefully this will and public social policies to counter the failings and decline of the result in greater cooperation between the two associations over the coming Japanese familial welfare mix. Nevertheless, the common ambition in years. For me, this would be particularly pleasing as the high quality of the South Asia did appear to be the desire to attain genuine economic security papers given and the extremely courteous hospitality offered at the and appropriate assistance for all citizens whether they be underpaid, symposium made it a very pleasurable conference to attend. unemployed, retired, sick or disabled.

Fitting of the international element, the symposium proved to be a leading All-in-all, I can only reiterate that attending the TASW conference was a forum for Japanese, South Korean and Taiwanese academics alike. highly pleasurable experience. Hopefully, new mechanisms for further Thankfully, the whole of this section of the conference was conducted in cooperation between the SPA and TASW will make it easier for SPA English and did not expose my inability to master a foreign language. The members to visit Taiwan and enjoy the delightful hospitality and intellectual themes discussed were also familiar. Issues relating to the effects of neo- debate I experienced last May. liberalism and globalization on familial welfare, state provision of welfare (where it exists), pensions and employment were interwoven with notions of Simon Prideaux - Lecturer in Social Policy, Sociology and Crime East Asia being categorised as a conglomeration of ‘Confucian welfare School of Sociology and Social Policy states’, ‘a hybrid of conservative and liberal welfare regimes’ or ‘Japan- University of Leeds

www.social-policy.com AUTUMN 2008 PolicyWorld 13 PolicyWorld_Template:Layout 1 29/9/08 09:42 Page 14

Postgraduate

'insiderness' and qualitative social research.' Social Third SPA Social and economic transitions – Katherine Botterill 'Transnational migrant networks and the social mobility of migrant workers from the post- policy in Postgraduate socialist world' and Christine Bertram 'Discretion and trust in the delivery of employment advice in developing Conference not-for-profit, public or for-profit organisations.' Gender – Helen Graham 'Behind the times? Family policy and family change over two and review generations?' and Nisrine Mansour 'Feminist interfaces or gendered policy spaces: women's groups and religious law reforms in post-conflict transitional Lebanon.' Chrystal Macmillan Building, University of Edinburgh Devolved Social Policy – Peter John Matthews economies: Thursday 26 June 2008 'Mind the gap: did evolution produce a Scottish regenerational policy?' and Kannawee Suebsuk challenges The third Postgraduate Conference saw 'Fiscal capacity of local governments in postgraduate students from around the UK and Thailand: what we missed in the past.' the rest of the world gather in Edinburgh in the Mixed Themes – Michael Rasell 'Separation, and (literally) brand new and impressive Chrystal society and the state: living with disabilities in Macmillan Bulding. Following on from the Russia, Mi Ah Schoyen 'Pensions all'Italiana: a success of the main Social Policy Association prime example of perverse redistribution' and possibilities Conference, this forum gave the opportunity for Yun-Ju Chen (Eva) 'A synchronisation between postgraduate students to present and discuss cultural and social policy: the social value of their work in a supportive and constructive museums in Taiwan.' environment. The range and quality of Review of the second Postgraduate postgraduate work being presented ensured that The quality of presentations and written papers Workshop held at Department of Social the day was stimulating and informative. ensured that there was plenty of enthusiastic Policy and Social Work, University of discussion throughout the event. The event was a Oxford The day covered a wide range of topics: huge success and the positive feedback Poverty and Financial Exclusion – Christopher demonstrates how important the conference is In April, just under 20 postgraduate researchers Deeming 'Determining semi-normative poverty for postgraduates in providing them with an from around the UK gathered in Oxford for a lines using household expenditure data' and opportunity to meet other researchers working Postgraduate Workshop focusing on social Nicole Lederle 'The benefits of improved on similar topics, learn about completely new policy for children, chaired by Fran Bennett and financial inclusion: what service users think?' areas and to make new contacts. As the new Teresa Smith. Care – Ahmed Albar 'Is policy transfer feasible? postgraduate representatives, Rachael and I are Looked after and care leavers' perspectives looking forward to continuing to develop the The focus of the event and the range of towards leaving care' and LynnMarie Sardinha success of the postgraduate conferences, perspectives from the speakers ensured that the 'Tackling domestic violence in India through workshops and activities. The SPA’s thanks go to day was full of stimulating presentations and education in schools.' several people in particular: to Richard Parry interesting discussion, and participants also got and Alison Scott at the University of Edinburgh the chance to network with fellow postgraduates Issues in Qualitative Research – Zabidah Putit for having organised everything before we even working on related issues. 'Researching refuge provision in Malaysia: thought about it; the SPA Executive Committee domestic violence and challenges in qualitative for funding the day and travel costs; and to all The quality both of the presentations and written data interpretation' and Rachael Dobson of the postgraduates who took part and who papers was extremely high and everyone 'Reflections on informal methodologies: made the day so enjoyable and interesting. attending – whether those presenting or simply contributing to the discussions throughout the day – enjoyed sharing ideas and comments throughout the event and over drinks afterwards.

The event again proved its value in providing a focused and informal forum for postgraduates to meet fellow postgraduate researchers working in similar areas, to make new contacts and to gain experience in presenting their work to an academic audience.

Thanks go to several people in the Department of Social Policy and Social Work at Oxford University: to Professor Peter Kemp for offering the use of the department’s facilities, and in particular to Fran Bennett and Teresa Smith for sharing their enthusiasm and expertise as Chairs.

14 PolicyWorld AUTUMN 2008 www.social-policy.com PolicyWorld_Template:Layout 1 29/9/08 09:42 Page 15

Postgraduate

Introducing the SPA’s new SPA Postgraduate Postgraduate Representatives: Aims and objectives 2008-09 Representatives The following are some of the things Meredith and Rachael plan to do in the coming year. After three and a half years in the role my time as Postgraduate Rep of the SPA has come to Postgraduate events are a key aim of the new reps. We will convene a postgraduate an end. I have really enjoyed seeing the SPA’s meeting/event at the SPA Annual Conference as well as lead or coordinate an postgraduate activities grow over that time into application to the ESRC for advanced postgraduate research training event(s) and the annual series of SPA Postgraduate promote and organise the same for social policy postgraduates, in conjunction with Conference and SPA Postgraduate Workshops Executiveommittee C and SPA members. that have proven so popular. I am really pleased to remain on the SPA Executive in We consider it our duties to report in writing to the Executive Committee in July each another role and would like to thank all of the year, to contact university representatives with information about the SPA twice in the SPA’s members for their help in raising year using a flyer and a welcoming letter, to organise two SPA postgraduate workshops awareness of our events and mailing lists to and to promote the SPA to postgraduates researching social policy issues throughout the postgraduates in their departments. UK, including their ability to use the Small Grants scheme.

As my last act I would like to take this In addition, we will look to advise t opportunity to welcome the SPA’s two new postgraduate membership and participationhe Executive in SPA Committee activities, onincrease strategies postgraduate to increase Postgraduate Representatives – Rachel Dobson membership to the SPA, build the SPA postgraduate community by facilitating networking from Leeds University and Meredith Beaumont between social science disciplines and between academics, policy makers and students. for Nottingham University. It is our hope also to inform existing members of the benefits of social policy related Best wishes events and updates in the discipline, to create dialogue with existing m future events, and to utilise the position of social science academics to promote the SPA’s embers about Dr Adam Whitworth aims and events. Department of Social Policy and Social Work University of Oxford

Hello! As the new Postgraduate Representatives for the SPA we would like to introduce ourselves and tell you a little bit more about us. SPA membership for postgraduates is fantastic value at just £18 pear I am Meredith Beaumont and calendar year and gives all of the usual benefits of membership, as well am in my second year of my as events tailored for postgraduate researchers: free copies of the Journal PhD at the University of of Social Policy, Social Politics and Society, Social Policy Review, and the Nottingham. I am researching Policy World newsletter; reduced rates at the annual SPA Postgraduate young carers and education, Conference; Postgraduate Workshops; and access to the SPA’s specifically in the areas of Postgraduate Network. The start of the academic year is the perfect time to encourage how educational experience postgraduates joining your department to find out about the SPA’s activities for postgraduates. and outcomes are affected by a child with caring responsibilities. I am delighted to be a If you would like to become a member of the SPA visit www.social-policy.com. postgraduate representative and I know both Rachael and I are full of enthusiasm to extend the postgraduate network, inform and provide Receiving information about the a platform of development for the SPA postgraduate community. SPA’s postgraduate events through the Jiscmail electronic mailing lists My name is Rachael Dobson, I am a postgraduate at the University of Leeds, entering Advertisements and calls for papers for all of the SPA’s postgraduate events are my third year of a PhD in distributed to electronic mailing lists but many postgraduate students are not social research. My thesis signed up to these lists. So if you are a postgraduate student then why not sign concerns policies and practices in the housing sector up now to make sure you know about these events as they are advertised. that are used by practitioners to influence Lecturers and researchers, you can help too by letting postgraduates in your service users' behaviour. I am excited to join department now about these lists. Signing up is easy to do: go to www.social- the SPA Executive Committee as postgraduate policy.com, follow the link to ‘electronic mailing lists’ and click on the ‘Join or representative, and look forward to promoting an inclusive approach and putting on events Leave SOCIAL-POLICY’ link to receive all of the SPA’s news and upcoming events that will remain relevant and meaningful for all as well as adverts for funding and job vacancies. doctoral students.’

www.social-policy.com AUTUMN 2008 PolicyWorld 15 PolicyWorld_Template:Layout 1 29/9/08 09:43 Page 16

SPA Awards

Association’s annual conference, and national Although unable to join us in person, Katherine The third postgraduate conferences). The subject matter of asked Fran Bennett to say a few words of thanks the paper had to be directly related to and on her behalf, and Fran informed us that promote a greater understanding of the Katherine has also been awarded the OBE – annual discipline of social policy, and the winner of this although, she was at pains to point out that in award will have their paper published in next Katherine’s case, this did not stand for ‘Other year’s Social Policy Review. This year the award people’s Bloody Efforts’! Social went to Cornelius Grebe at the University of Nottingham for his paper on Childcare Policy in The final award - for Lifetime Achievement - is a Germany (1998-2005): Construing the ‘problem’ notoriously difficult award to grant and has Policy of the incompatibility of paid employment and divided opinion on the judging panel every family care work. year. This award was given to a member of the Social Policy Association the judges felt: had Association The next award was for Best Newcomer. This made persistent contributions to research and award was granted to a lecturer or researcher organisation (of major who is within five years of conferences, influential Awards their first post- reports, SPA Exec posts, graduation post, etc.); who has raised the and who was external profile of the judged to have subject; had achieved made a significant recognition by non- A balmy Scottish June evening in the early contribution to academics with interest in historic and beautiful Playfair Library at the field of social social policy: journalists, Edinburgh University was the venue for policy. In judging campaigners and the gala dinner of the 2008 Annual this award, the lobbyists, activists, user Conference, incorporating our incoming judges took account communities; had an President's inaugural address and the of publications acknowledged presentation of the annual Social Policy records, research international reputation, Association Awards. Great food, great achievements, as measured in terms of company and a great location combined teaching achievements translations, citations, to make a memorable evening. and evidence of projects, academic esteem both inside and posts; had made contributions to Nicholas Timmins, the Social Policy Association’s outside of the professional bodies and associations; had an President, public policy editor at the Financial academic community. This year the award went impact on political process/discourse (advisor to Times and noted author of The Five Giants, gave to Tania Burchardt at the LSE. In fact, we had to government, consultant to voluntary bodies/local a brief presidential address before moving on to check that Tania was eligible for this award, as government etc.); and had achieved esteem hand out the awards. As a member of the her achievements and impact on social policy as measured in terms of journal judging panel, which also included Jonathan a discipline have been so impressive that most of editing/establishing, promotion of social policy Bradshaw (York), Hilary Land (Bristol), Adrian us were convinced that she had been around a within other social sciences, membership of Sinfield (Edinburgh) and Alan Walker (Sheffield), lot longer than she has. research councils or similar bodies. This year it he was aware of just how difficult the judges' proved again very difficult decide on the merits task had been in the face of some very high The next award was for Outstanding of the candidates for this award, and so the quality nominations this year. Contribution from a Non-academic. This award judges were unanimous in deciding to grant the was granted to an individual or organization award to two ‘giants’ in the social policy field, who in the opinion of the judges has David Donnison and Peter Townsend. made a significant and lasting contribution to Both winners were characteristically generous the field of social policy, with their thanks, taking care to mention each either through other’s work, and it was a fitting end to a campaigning, lobbying, wonderful evening. The Social Policy Association service provision, would like to thank the judges, the sponsors (The fundraising, journalism, Guardian, Cambridge University Press and the funding of research, Policy Press) and above all the many members dissemination of research who took the time and trouble to make the (particularly to nominations this year. Watch out for the next practitioners and other edition of Policy World and please continue to non-academic audiences) nominate the work of your colleagues so that we or through other non- can carry on celebrating the very best in Social academic means. This year Policy endeavour. We welcome any suggestions the award goes to or comments you may have about the awards Katherine Rake. Of course, and keep them under review: please contact many of you already know [email protected], or the incoming Katherine’s work as an awards officer [email protected] with The first award was for the Best Postgraduate academic, but she has now your views. Paper. This award was presented to the author moved to a non-academic setting as Director of of the best postgraduate paper presented at any the Fawcett Society and has used skills and Kirstein Rummery social policy conference between July 2006 and knowledge developed in the former to extremely Social Policy Association Awards Officer July 2007 (including the Social Policy good effect in the latter.

16 PolicyWorld AUTUMN 2008 www.social-policy.com PolicyWorld_Template:Layout 1 29/9/08 09:43 Page 17

SPA Awards

Best Postgraduate Paper: Cornelius Grebe intelligence and flair bring energy into the policy continued to teach and write. Policies for a Just Childcare Policy in Germany (1998-2005): debates with which Fawcett is concerned, while Society, brilliantly focuses the concerns of a Construing the ‘problem’ of the incompatibility of her willingness to engage with the media has lifetime, was published in 1997 – and a book paid employment and family care work given the organisation a respected place in the on advocacy is forthcoming. Cornelius’ paper was an insightful treatment of wider world. Both as an academic, and as a the topic, tackling the issue at a more abstracted campaigner and lobbyist, she has made an Lifetime Achievement: Peter Townsend and more reflective manner than is usually the outstanding contribution to ensuring that the Peter Townsend, currently Centennial Professor at case in the literature, and it was refreshing to results of social policy research are used to the London School of Economics and Political see that it is not just females who can undertake inform policymaking in the UK. Science, is a distinguished UK social policy a serious gendered analysis of policy. academic, whose career spans more than fifty Lifetime Achievement: David Donnison years. Best known for his research into national Best Newcomer: Tania Burchardt Professor David Donnison is one of only a and international social inequalities and social A thoroughly inspiring academic who has made handful of Social Policy Academics who can lay policy issues relating to poverty, health, old age an outstanding contribution to the discipline of claim to having significantly shaped the and child welfare, he has authored hundreds of social policy in her research, teaching, knowledge-base of social policy – both journal and articles and authored or co-authored publications and administrative responsibilities. academically and as a policy actor. David around fifty books. Many of these books are In a few short years, Tania has managed to Donnison has been involved in Social Policy for social policy ‘classics’ e.g. The Family Life of amass a publication list that many senior over fifty years, starting as an assistant lecturer Old People (1957), Poverty in the UK (1979), academics would be proud of, reflecting a at Manchester University in 1950, progressing the Black Report (1980, 1992). His most recent phenomenal rate of high quality work. The depth through a period in Toronto, and then to the LSE work in the past few years has been addressing and breadth of Tania’s expertise is evident in her as Reader, then Professor, where he became and contributing to international and global well respected research on disability, incomes, increasingly interested aspects of social policy. Peter’s social security, social exclusion and social in housing policy. sustained commitment and justice. In addition to this, Tania has made a The Government of intellectual contributions to social very active contribution to the discipline through Housing (1967) was policy as a field of study and her editorial work on Benefits, Social Policy and a seminal work and research since the 1950s to the Administration and as incoming co-editor of led to a new socio- present day have inspired and Journal of Social Policy. It is impossible to spatial and political influenced many generations of imagine how any academic could make a approach to housing social policy students, greater contribution within five years of their first policy that was academics, practitioners and post-graduation post. further developed in policy activists in the UK and numerous books, around the world. He has Outstanding Contribution from a Non- articles and research substantially raised the external academic: Katherine Rake reports over thirty profile of social policy within As a lecturer in social policy at the London years. Of particular the UK and overseas through School of Economics, she produced an significance was the his university, media, impressive body of work on gender inequality recognition of the campaigning, research and and social policy, ageing and pensions, and complex nature of government workover a half women’s work and caring. Her book, Gender ‘regeneration’, and century. He is respected and and the Welfare State: Care, Work and Welfare the importance of local admired by all those with in Europe and the USA, written jointly with Mary and community whom he has worked, not only for the quality of Daly, was published in 2003. She moved from decision making – themes that informed his work his social scientific analysis but also for using his the LSE to be Director of the Fawcett as the first Director of the Centre for position to campaign for progressive policy Society. This organisation dates back to 1866, Environmental Studies and his time at Professor reforms. He has consistently promoted social when Millicent Fawcett began campaigning for in the Department of Town and Regional policy analysis across Europe, for example votes for women. Under Katherine’s leadership it Planning, Glasgow University. David Donnison founding the European Network of Professors of has become the UK’s leading organisation was also a hugely influential policy actor: he Social Sciences in 1997, and in Asia and working for gender equality and an served on the Plowden Committee on primary America. Importantly, he has also promoted our authoritative, independent advocate of women’s schools (1967) and the Public Schools field of study within international governmental rights. She has led effective campaigns on Commission (1970) before becoming Deputy organisations, viz the European Commission, the domestic violence, women and money, equal Chair of the Supplementary Benefits Commission World Bank and the UN system. Several pay, ethnic minority women, sexism in the city, (1973) and then Chair (1975-1980). His book universities have already recognised his and many other topics. She is a member of the The Politics of Poverty (1982) draws on his significant and sustained contributions over the ESRC’s SAGE (Stimulating Social Policy for an experiences during his time at the Commission. course of his lifetime to social science and social Ageing Society) research group and of the Since retiring in 1990, David has acted as policy through the award of honorary higher Women’s Budget Group. Katherine Rake’s President of the SPA (1991-95) and has degrees.

www.social-policy.com AUTUMN 2008 PolicyWorld 17 PolicyWorld_Template:Layout 1 29/9/08 09:43 Page 18

SPA Conference

Challenging Boundaries was held at the Globalisation? The paper looks at some of the Challenging University of Edinburgh from 23 to 25 June alternatives to the Washington consensus, 2008. National boundaries were certainly focusing on the paradigm of global social challenged by the delegates, who attended from democracy. Boundaries as far afield as the Yeungnam University in Kyongbuk-do (South Korea), The Chinese Michael Keating from the European University University of Hong Kong, Masaryk University in Institute in Florence and the University of Brno (Czech Republic) and Tezukyama Aberdeen closed proceedings on Wednesday University in Okayama (Japan) as well as with his paper Rescaling Social Citizenship. Lithuania, Turkey, Australia, Canada and the Solidarity and Devolution in Plurinational States Social Policy United States of America among others. – the fourth plenary session.

The 260-odd delegates attended four plenary "It has been fun, as well as utterly efficient," the Association sessions and five paper sessions over three incoming SPA chair Caroline Glendinning said days. A total of 107 individual papers were at the time of the event. given, as well as two paper symposium sessions conference where several papers with a common theme Evening entertainment for delegates included were brought together. Monday night's conference and awards dinner and a visit to the Scottish Parliament. Many 2008 Ann S Orloff from Northwestern University was publishers were also able to showcase stalls at the first plenary speaker, presenting a paper the conference, and the conference timetable titled Feminist social policy for a post- was packed to the brim with fringe features and maternalist era: the gender equality project in special interest group meetings. Europe and America. In the second plenary session, Wim Van Oorschot from Tilburg At the Social Policy Association's Annual University in the Netherlands presented on General Meeting, Saul Becker handed over to Information about the Globalisation, the European welfare state, and Caroline Glendinning as Chair of the conference is still the protection of the poor. Delegates heard association (see page 4) and the conference available online at from Walden Bello in the third plenary. Bello organisers Jochen Clasen, Richard Parry and www.crfr.ac.uk/spa/ had travelled from the University of the administrator Alison Scott were warmly thanked. Philippines to present his paper Global Social spa_index.html Democracy: The Answer to the Crisis of - Kate Merriam

SPA conference returns to Edinburgh

Following its success in 2008, the SPA conference returns to Edinburgh in 2009 from lunchtime on Monday 29 June to lunchtime on Wednesday 1 July. Sessions will again be based around George Square, with accommodation in Chancellor’s Court of the Pollock Halls of Residence.

The conference dinner will be on the evening of Monday 29 June in the Main Hall of The Hub; the 1840s former church on the Royal Mile that is now the home of the Edinburgh International Festival.

Three plenary sessions are now being planned. The intention is to have an additional slot for paper presentations but to reduce the number of parallel sessions from 10 to 8, thus maintaining 150 paper-giving opportunities.

Further information will be available on the conference website accessible via www.social-policy.com. Paper proposals in the form of an e-mail attachment of 300-400 words should be submitted by the closing date of Friday 30 January. Decisions on acceptances will be made during February 2009. Papers that cannot be fitted in may be given the status of ‘contributed papers' and placed on the conference website. Online booking will open in January 2009 and a booking form will be included in the January edition of Policy World. PolicyWorld_Template:Layout 1 29/9/08 09:43 Page 19

Small Grants

Since September 2007, Jim Goddard employers, FE and HE involved in its (JUC) and Nick Ellison (SPA Executive) construction. Where HE is concerned, the The 14-19 have been members of the Diploma evidence so far suggests that standards at Level Development Partnership Steering Group Three will be at least ‘satisfactory’ for university charged with developing the new entrance, although grading structures have yet to Diploma in Diploma in Public Services. This group is be put in place. convened and administered by the Skills Sector Council ‘Skills for Justice’ and the The Diploma’s emphasis is on 'applied' learning, Public Diploma itself is due to be taught for the such as learning about how public services work first time in September 2010. Our role on and the specific skills required to work in the the Steering Group has been to represent public services. Services the views of Higher Education, particularly on the academic content of This could promote understanding of social policy the Level Three (post-16) stage of the by providing opportunities to see how state Diploma. institutions work (including welfare institutions). there is a chance that students wishing to apply Students should learn a good deal about how the to universities with a Diploma in Public Services The key objective of the Diplomas (there are nine public sector works and the mix of vocational could find social policy (and social work) in all covering a range of areas from Business, and academic content on the public sector should degrees attractive options. Administration and Finance through to Hair and mean that they will enter higher education with a Beauty Studies) is ‘to raise achievement and to better knowledge of this area than many other There is another year to go before the Diploma bridge the gap between vocational and students with standard A-Levels. is ready to be submitted for approval – and a academic learning’. In so doing, they aim ‘to good deal more to do on the Level Three respond to employer demands for better skilled Whilst the public sector covers a wide area, content. While it’s possible that the Diploma and employable young people whilst providing there is a reasonable amount of overlap with could have a positive impact on undergraduate the skills and attitudes valued by universities’ core social policy concerns around the welfare applications for social policy, this cannot be a (Steering Group Overview Briefing Paper, July state and its governance. There is academic well-informed prediction until the finalised lines 2008). The Public Services Diploma – like all content which fits well for social policy, but it is of learning for Level Three are seen. diplomas – is split into three levels with Level heavily related to 'practice'. The Diploma is Three being roughly equivalent to A-level unlikely to directly address academic/theoretical Jim and Nick will provide further information standard. One Diploma with all ‘lines of social policy issues such as social justice, the about progress as it becomes available. In the learning’ successfully passed is intended to be nature of equality, inclusion/exclusion etc. meantime, we believe that the Diploma is likely equivalent to three A-levels. to be a positive development for social policy. Because the Diploma attempts to integrate The process of developing the Diploma has been practical skills/knowledge about working in the Nick Ellison extremely thorough (if rather bureaucratic!), with public services with more analytical abilities Jim Goddard

The SPA invites applications for its small I Provide a provisional budget which must grants scheme, designed to help fund include a full breakdown of costs, seminars and workshops dealing with indicating the items on which the award research and/or learning & teaching in a will be spent, and specify whether way that is of benefit to the social policy additional funding from other sources is community and SPA members. The focus should be on activities that will benefit a being sought or has already been group or network rather than individuals. secured. Each award offers a maximum of £500. The deadlines for applications are 1st Applications, which should take the form of a March, 1st June, 1st September and 1st letter, should contain an outline description of the December. aims, rationale and nature of the proposed event itself. Applicants should also clearly demonstrate Applicants will be expected to: how it meets each of the above criteria. As much I Be SPA members; detail as possible about your plans to ensure that Small I Publicise their seminar/workshop as the award will benefit SPA members should be widely as possible, including through SPA included at this stage. channels; Grants I Write a short report after the event to SPA The SPA reserves the right to pay the award in members via Policy World; more than one instalment if this is appropriate. It I Use this as an opportunity to recruit new also reserves the right to reject applications from Scheme SPA members (including marketing via those who have failed to fulfil small grant award other channels, distribution of SPA leaflets, conditions in the past. use of SPA logo, etc.); I Make the seminar/workshop as inclusive Please send your application to as possible (attendance need not be Nicola Yeates limited to SPA members); Department of Social Policy I Raise the profile of the SPA to external Walton Hall, The Open University, agencies (government, independent Milton Keynes, MK7 6AA sector, research centres, etc) in the UK [[email protected]]. and other countries as appropriate;

www.social-policy.com AUTUMN 2008 PolicyWor ld 19 PolicyWorld_Template:Layout 1 29/9/08 09:44 Page 20

SWAP News

Higher Education news Supporting learning and teaching

Forthcoming events Northern Ireland policy focus

The Internationalising of UK HE Learning and Teaching conference (Hosted by C-SAP 27 and 28 November, University of Edinburgh) www.c-sap.bham.ac.uk/events/ conference_08/index.html

More events are currently being planned including an event for social policy post- graduate students and new academic staff. Also in planning are events related to SWAP’s current funded projects such as the Creative analysis of NSS data project focusing on good practice in The organisation of Health and Social Care in The first addressed the question ‘to what extent Northern Ireland is currently witnessing major is it the role of the academic community to affect assessment feedback. This project is led reform introduced via the Health and Social change at policy and practice level?’ The second by the University of Lincoln in partnership Care (Reform) Bill. SWAP hosted two critical asked ‘how might practitioners be agents of with City University London and dialogues for social work and social care change?’. A full report of both events together University of Portsmouth. An associated academics and professionals to explore some of with audio clips can be accessed via the key issues for social work and social care www.swap.ac.uk/policyregulation/nor research blog is being trialled at: post devolution within this context of change. thernireland.html. http://learninglab.lincoln.ac.uk/blo gs/swap

For more information on these and other New resources forthcoming events for the social policy community visit E-learning: Making educational digitalresources/video.html where www.swap.ac.uk/events videos you’ll find an introduction and an example This new helpsheet offers ideas and for you to download. support for creating video based learning Event funding. Do you have an idea for resources without the need of a camcorder. What makes a good lecture/lecturer? an event related to the learning and It is part of a range of resources produced SWAP’s short guide series now includes teaching of social policy? SWAP has by the E-supported Learning and Teaching two new titles 4a Maximising student Enhancement (ELTE) project all of which funds available to support institutions to learning in lectures and 4b What can be downloaded from host regional workshops or similar makes a good lecturer? The student www.swap.ac.uk/projects/externalco perspective. The guides contain ideas on events. Visit www.swap.ac.uk/ mms.html how to help students get the most out of getinvolved/host.html for more their lecturers and provide some insightful details. One application of video based learning is feedback from students on what they’ve digital storytelling. To find out more about found particularly effective. Both are digital storytelling, what it is and the available online at www.swap.ac.uk/ possibilities for using it in your teaching, resources/publs/guides.html visit www.swap.ac.uk/resources/

20 PolicyWorld AUTUMN 2008 www.social-policy.com PolicyWorld_Template:Layout 1 29/9/08 09:44 Page 21

SWAP News

Resources to support teaching and learning activities related to internationalisation

Internationalisation is one of the Higher I Cultural Transfer is discussed on Education Academy’s priority themes. Thinking Allowed (30 July and 3 August Information on the Academy’s work on this 2008) downloadable from topic together with a collection of case studies www.bbc.co.uk/radio4/factual/ of institutional, departmental and disciplinary thinkingallowed/thinkingallow strategies for the support of international ed_20080730.shtml students can be found at www.heacademy.ac.uk/ If you are interested in the internationalisation ourwork/learning/international of the curriculum you may be interested in the case studies and other resources accessible via The following resources may also be of interest www.swap.ac.uk/resources/themes/ and in particular offer insight into the int.html. experiences of Chinese students: Making sense of Disclaimer: Inclusion of the sites on this list I ‘Negotiating an identity in English: the does not constitute a recommendation in the student discursive construction and relation to the quality or currency of resources reconstruction of Chinese students’, a or information found on these sites experience paper by Trevor Grimshaw, www.swap.ac.uk/ Do you have an idea for how SWAP can assist resources/publs/monographs.h the social policy community on issues tml associated with internationalisation? Pass on your ideas by emailing University life uncovered: making I ‘Cultural Transfer: the impact of direct [email protected]. In addition, if you sense of the student experience is a new experience on evaluations of British and have a case study to offer on your experience research monograph focusing on student Chinese Societies’ a report by Greg of internationalising the curriculum please experiences of Higher Education in the UK. Philo, www.gla.ac.uk/centres/ contact the same address - SWAP is offering The publication builds on themes explored at mediagroup/ £25 of book tokens for case studies that get a conference hosted by SWAP in November published to their website. 2007. Authors have a wide range of subject affiliations and this diversification of policy research into student life is matched by diversification of the student body represented. Increasingly, students who sign up for the courses of further study bring with them a diaspora of experiences and expectations of their own. The monograph showcases some of the ways in which Using Social Policy Research members of the broad social policy in Teaching community are researching the student More print copies of this publication experience and their findings to date. It offers are now available. The booklet a framework for the examination and comprises a collection of case exploration of some aspects of student experience and associated cultures. Lone studies which demonstrate how parents, first year students, Chinese and social policy research can be international students are amongst the groups usefully fed back into the researched. Issues of identity, student communities where the research accommodation, drinking and term time work originated as well as comparative are some of the issues discussed. social policy teaching and learning. To order a copy, email The monograph can be viewed online at [email protected] www.swap.ac.uk/resources/publs/ monographs.html or for a free print copy of this publication contact [email protected].

www.social-policy.com AUTUMN 2008 PolicyWorld 21 PolicyWorld_Template:Layout 1 29/9/08 09:44 Page 22

Books

Linda Smith and the Social Policy Association

We were part of the team who organised the a supportive opportunity to rehone her standup 2000 SPA annual conference, held at skills. At the time, it certainly wasn’t noticeable Roehampton University (then University of Surrey that she might have been a bit out of practice. Roehampton). One of our responsibilities was to We recall her set as very funny and well provide delegates with an evening’s received. Linda had obviously done some entertainment after the conference dinner. We research and tailor-made topical jokes for and at decided that we needed a comedian with a a social policy conference audience, woven in sharp wit, who could address the sort of with her more general musings about everyday contemporary political issues that would and irritations. We’re sorry that we don’t have the should be foremost in the minds of a SPA memory or skill to replicate any of her more SPA- audience, and who was guaranteed to be funny. directed comments here. Oh, and it would be great if it could be a woman as well. Linda Smith was the obvious What we do recall was that Linda stayed around choice. We were both fans of her work on in the bar afterwards to chat with people. We various Radio 4 comedy programmes, and of were struck by how friendly and down-to-earth her stand-up performances. she was, remembering the names of the people she was introduced to and anxious to hear their We were delighted when Linda agreed to our opinions. That little bit of personal contact request. We hadn’t realised – until we read her probably made us all the more saddened to partner, Warren Lakin’s, recently published learn of her death in early 2006. biography – that our invitation was a significant one for her. We feel very pleased that the SPA Rosalind Edwards and Judith Glover Driving Miss Smith: conference we organised was able to offer Linda A memoir of The following is an extract from Driving Miss Smith: A memoir of Linda Smith, by Warren Lakin. Linda Smith £8.99. Hodder & Stoughton Ltd, London.

“It was time to see whether there was public demand for by Warren Lakin a full 90-minute solo Linda Smith show. Would enough people turn up? Could she sustain a whole evening performance on her own in front of 500 people? ... £8.99 Hodder & Stoughton Ltd The turning point came in July 2000 with a gig at the London Univer of sity Surrey, Roehampton, for the annual conference of the Social Policy Association. It was a small and intimate social evening, but no less important for it. In accepting the booking, we had decided to see if Linda still had the nerve to get up and do it. First, intensive preparation was required in order to get a credible set list together. Linda began by sifting through old material and selecting a rejecting pieces. Next she set about creating new stuff that could join the timeless pile if it worked on its first outing. Finally she needed to drop in somend topical and political stuff about New Labour and Blair. She was nervous before the gig, but she rose to the occasion and overcame her fear of prolonged absence – one that had threatened to condemn her to the stage comedy scrapheap. The gig went well a her appetite for her craft. Now, more than anything, she wanted to go on tour.”nd Linda rediscovered

Linda Smith died from ovarian cancer in February 2006, aged 48. A share of royalties from the biography written by her partner of 23 years will be donated to ovarian cancer action.

22 PolicyWorld AUTUMN 2008 www.social-policy.com PolicyWorld_Template:Layout 1 29/9/08 09:44 Page 23

Books

Former President of the SPA Polly Toynbee has "We had hoped they [the focus group encouraged academics to help raise public and participants] would re-think their position once political awareness about the reality of poverty they were faced with the facts," Polly Toynbee and inequality in the UK. admitted. "Unfortunately, that didn't happen."

The Guardian columnist and former BBC editor In its following chapters, Unjust Rewards includes of social affairs spoke following the publication case studies of people living in poverty, looks at of her new book: Unjust Rewards. Co-written policies that could have an impact on inequality, with David Walker, editor of the Guardian's and presents suggestions for political action monthly magazine Public, the book turns on a including a criticism of objections to higher levels unique survey involving a focus group of high of taxation. However, the study of high earners is earners. both the hook and the focus of the book, which is straightforwardly and accessibly written with a "It's very important to change attitudes [about conversational tone and plentiful illustrations. inequality]," Polly Toynbee told Policy World, citing research that shows a shift in the general Promoting the issue is clearly also something of a public's attitude towards inequality following the personal crusade for Polly Toynbee. "So many presentation of some facts on the subject. middle class people find it very hard to believe Initially, the writers of Unjust Rewards thought that 95% of the population live on less than that by convening a focus group of high earners £45,000 in the UK," she says. "'Middle class' and presenting them with some authoritative people live in a more isolated world than we'd economic research on the subject of income, like to think." they might bring about a similar change in attitudes. Toynbee and Walker wanted to present Adrian Sinfield, Professor Emeritus in Social a story of inequality which would be vividly Policy at Edinburgh University, recommended the accessible for lay readers, based on the most up- book to SPA members because of its important Unjust rewards to-date research, and contribute towards a shift subject matter and said: "Their account of the in attitudes across the population as a whole. ways that resources – income, wealth and respect – are channelled and packaged across "We asked Mori about the attitudes of the rich the whole of society raises important research by Polly Toynbee and they told us they had never managed to get and policy questions. This is an area where a focus group together. [David and I] thought systematic research seems very scarce. A better and David Walker that with the Guardian's resources - such as the understanding of the patterns of distribution and business desk contacts - we could probably redistribution and their impact across an unequal manage it. Eventually, two brave companies society helps to broaden the social policy £12.99 agreed to expose themselves to what turned out agenda." Granta to be a rather painful process," Toynbee said. The book belies a hint of defeatism in the writers' As told in the book, the research was sponsored tone, as if perhaps they believe the battle against by the Joseph Rowntree Foundation with unsubstantiated anecdotes that focus on a lazy additional assistance from the Barrow Cadbury and undeserving underclass is too difficult to win. Trust. Sessions were conducted over two When questioned on what academics can do to evenings by Ipsos Mori, during which the disseminate research findings into the public participants were asked questions from the domain, Toynbee said: "Academics could British Social Attitudes survey and their replies challenge politicians more when what they say is were later analysed by Tom Sefton from the simply factually inaccurate. With the exception of London School of Economics. Following these one or two brave individuals, there is a political questionnaires, Professor John Hills, director of nervousness amongst academics and they the Centre for the Analysis of Social Exclusion at perhaps lack the authority they once had." She the London School of Economics, presented facts hoped academic groups would organise about earnings to the group. "We reckoned that themselves to confront politicians and prevent the if the information came from a renowned spread of unfounded attitudes. economist it would be more credible," admit the writers. The shock felt by the writers of Unjust Rewards at the high earners' attitudes and responses is But the research exercise "turned into a startling clearly evident in the way the account closes: demonstration of these City panjandrums' "They were less intelligent, less intellectually ignorance" such as their belief that the top 10% inquisitive, less knowledgeable and, despite their bracket of earners begins at £162,000, rather good schools, less broadly educated than high- than the actual 2007 figure of £39,825. The fliers in other professions. writers continued to be surprised when participants defended their wealth. One lawyer "With minds this coarse, they wouldn't succeed admitted that he couldn't imagine surviving on in the higher ranks of the civil service, as heads an income as low as £100,000, while another of hospital trusts or good comprehensives, nor objected furiously to the suggestion of a 'more would they match up to the level of many junior progressive' tax system as the "politics of envy" ministers. Their high salaries were not a sign of and the group agreed that "public money is any obvious superiority." always misspent". Kate Merriam

www.social-policy.com AUTUMN 2008 PolicyWorld 23 PolicyWorld_Template:Layout 1 29/9/08 09:44 Page 24