Social Policy Review 33: Analysis and Debate in Social Policy, 2021

The COVID-19 pandemic has increased the importance of the annual Social Policy Review, which addresses critical debates in the international social policy field. It focuses on responses to COVID-19 and its implications for social policy, with expert contributors addressing issues such as foodbanks, caring for older family members, lockdowns, gender, technology, and migration.

Format: Hardback
Length: 288 pages
Publication date: 30 July 2021
Publisher: Bristol University Press

The COVID-19 pandemic has had a profound and far-reaching impact on the world, making the annual Social Policy Review more crucial than ever before. This comprehensive volume delves into critical debates within the international social policy field, with a particular emphasis on responses to the pandemic and its implications for social policy. Expert contributors offer valuable insights on a range of pressing issues, including the role of foodbanks, the challenges of caring for older family members, the global impact of lockdowns, the dynamics of gender, technology, and migration during a pandemic.

Published in association with the Social Policy Association, this annual review is an essential resource for students and academics in social policy, social welfare, and related disciplines. It provides a comprehensive overview of the latest developments and trends in social policy, enabling readers to stay informed and engaged with the field.

The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic has been felt across the globe, affecting individuals, communities, and economies on a global scale. In response, social policy has played a vital role in mitigating the effects of the pandemic and ensuring the well-being of society. This annual review highlights the key debates and discussions that have taken place in the social policy field, providing a platform for experts to share their knowledge and perspectives.

One of the central themes of the review is the role of foodbanks in providing food and support to those in need during the pandemic. Foodbanks have emerged as a critical response to the increasing demand for food assistance, as many individuals and families have been hit hard by job losses, reduced income, and food insecurity. The contributors explore the challenges faced by foodbanks in meeting the needs of their communities, including funding, logistics, and the impact of the pandemic on food supply chains.

Another important issue addressed in the review is the care of older family members during the pandemic. Older individuals are particularly vulnerable to the effects of the virus, and the challenges of providing care to them have been amplified. The contributors discuss the strategies used by governments and social service organizations to support older family members, including home care, respite care, and social isolation programs.

Lockdowns around the globe have been implemented as a measure to contain the spread of the virus, but they have also had significant implications for social policy. The contributors examine the impact of lockdowns on individuals, communities, and the economy, including the effects on employment, education, and mental health. They also explore the strategies used by governments to support individuals and businesses during these challenging times, such as financial assistance programs and job retention schemes.

Gender, technology, and migration are also key areas of focus in the review. The pandemic has highlighted the disparities in access to healthcare, technology, and social support services between different genders, as well as the challenges faced by migrants during the pandemic. The contributors discuss the strategies used by governments and social service organizations to address these disparities and support vulnerable groups, including gender-based violence prevention programs and migrant support initiatives.

The COVID-19 pandemic has also had a significant impact on the global economy, leading to widespread job losses, reduced income, and economic uncertainty. The contributors explore the strategies used by governments and international organizations to address these economic challenges, including stimulus packages, bailout programs, and economic recovery plans. They also examine the long-term implications of the pandemic on social policy, including the potential for increased inequality and social unrest.

In conclusion, the annual Social Policy Review is a vital resource for students and academics in social policy, social welfare, and related disciplines. It provides a comprehensive overview of the latest developments and debates within the international social policy field, with a particular emphasis on responses to the COVID-19 pandemic and its implications for social policy. The contributions of expert contributors offer valuable insights on a range of pressing issues, enabling readers to stay informed and engaged with the field. As we continue to navigate the challenges of the pandemic, the annual Social Policy Review will remain an essential tool for shaping our understanding of social policy and its role in building a more equitable and resilient society.

Weight: 584g
Dimension: 162 x 241 x 25 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781447359722