Sociology & Anthropology

This innovative book addresses the historical development of social and fiscal policies in Britain Ñ from the late 1970s to the present day Ñ by asking three major questions. What has changed? How have these changes affected the lifecourse? What are the potential lifetime impacts of policy change? The book begins by reviewing the political changes and policy since the 1970s, as well as the economic and social changes that have occurred alongside. It then takes an innovative approach in looking at specific programs about crucial aspects of the lifecycle Ñ from maternity and childhood, through to adult events and risks, before finally looking at retirement, survivorship, and death. Finally, profiles of three hypothetical "families" are developed for 1979, 1997, and 2008 Ñ the Meades, who are median earners; the Moores, who are high earners; and the Lowes, who are low paid Ñ to provide a comprehensive discussion of policy changes and make innovative insights for the future. This is the first book to join up the history of Britain's policy direction with an analysis of outcomes over the whole period. It provides an overview of the development of policy change, using an innovative and unique lifetime approach "from the cradle to the grave" to put it into perspective.