Is this an adequate response?

(E) Explain the terms ‘universal’ and ‘selective’ benefits. (6 marks)

The terms ‘universal’ and ‘selective’ benefits refer to two ways in which financial support is distributed through the Welfare State.

Universal benefits were introduced following the established of the modern Welfare state, and more specifically, The Beveridge report of Social insurance and Allied Services [1942]. The report called for greater universality, that is, services that provided for everyone as a matter of right. Prior to this, social security provisions were largely selective, subject to tough means tests and only distributed to the extremely needy. Universality was a principle that received widespread support, specifically from the troops at home and abroad. Moreover, the recommendations seemed to represent everything that they were fighting for: democracy, freedom and equality. The first move towards ‘universal’ benefits was seen through the 1945 Family Allowance Act, which provided weekly cash payments for each child after the first. Every family, regardless of status, income and class, were entitled to such payments. Furthermore, the 1946 National Health Service Act, and The 1944 Education Act, established systems that were virtually free for all. Such statutory services persist today, in the form of the NHS and the state-schooling system.

Universal services are also more people-friendly. The universality of them takes away the stigma that may be associated with claiming selective, means-tested benefits. Thus, those who would be ashamed to apply for support under the ‘selective’ services are able to receive benefits to which they are entitled without feelings of shame.

Selective benefits are a complete contrast to universality. Such ‘selective’ services are provided strictly for the certain occupational groups and directed towards particularly needy individuals or families. Prior to the beginning of the nineteenth century, benefits were extremely difficult to claim. This gradually began to change thorough the nineteen hundreds with the expansion of social services following the First World War (1914-18).

In more recent times, however, we have seen a shift back towards selectivity. Thus, the Conservation Government, from 1979 onwards, refocused emphasis on increased selectivity and means tests. For example, eyesight tests are no longer free for all, but are means tested. Further to this, there have been cuts in some universal benefits such as unemployment benefit. As a result, people now have to reply more heavily on means-tested benefits such as income support. Supporters of selectivity argue that means-tested benefits enable the Welfare State to focus on those in the most need, ultimately, increasing efficiency by directing financial sources only to those who need it. This also saves governmental and tax payers’ money, and is thus regarded as more productive form of benefit by many governmental bodies.