Everyone has the right to social security
Social security is a universal human right. It is one of the foundations people need to live well. By protecting it, we can build fairer systems, reduce inequalities, and ensure everyone has the support they need when life takes an unexpected turn.
What is the right to social security?
Most of us will need support at different points in our lives. We may become ill, lose our job, take on caring responsibilities, retire, or face circumstances beyond our control.
Everyone has the right to social security – and the support to achieve it.
The right to social security is guaranteed in international law, in article 9 of the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights (ICESCR) which the UK Government ratified ICESCR in 1976, and in doing so agreed to abide by the rights in it.
Everyone has the right to social security – and to the support they need to live with dignity. The right to social security is not simply about providing financial assistance in times of crisis. It is about ensuring everyone can maintain an adequate standard of living and participate fully in society.
Social security is one of the foundations of a strong society. Like housing, food, healthcare, education and decent work, it helps create the conditions people need to live healthy, secure and fulfilling lives.
In practice, the right to social security means:
- Everyone can access financial support when they need it
- Social security systems are available, accessible and adequate for everyone, no matter who they are or where they live
- Support enables people to meet essential living costs and live with dignity
- Governments create systems that provide security during periods of unemployment, illness, disability, caring responsibilities, retirement and other life changes
- Social security systems are designed around people’s needs and experiences
- People can hold decision-makers accountable when systems fail to provide the foundations they need to live well
When these foundations are strong, people can thrive. When they are not, people experience poverty, insecurity and poorer health and wellbeing, and this harm is avoidable
No Recourse to Public Funds
Everyone has a right to access social security. This right is recognised under international law.
We campaign to end No Recourse to Public Funds (NRPF) and the two child limit policy. We urge the UK Government to ensure all people can enjoy their economic, social and cultural rights.
Why stronger protections are needed now?
Social security protections are not adequate in the UK and millions of people are living in poverty.
- Many households are unable to afford essentials such as food, heating and housing.
- Benefit levels often fail to keep pace with the real cost of living.
- Disabled people frequently face barriers when trying to access support.
- Delays, sanctions and complex processes can leave people without the income they need.
- Many people experience stigma and shame when seeking support they are entitled to receive.
These are not isolated experiences. People’s everyday experiences show where the system are failing and where change is needed.
Poverty and insecurity are not the result of individual choices or personal failure. They reflect decisions about benefit levels, eligibility rules, public spending and the design of the UK’s social security system.
Formally protecting the right to social security in law would help shift the focus from crisis management towards prevention, accountability and dignity. A legal right to social security would create clear standards, strengthen accountability, and help ensure decision-makers take action when systems are failing.
Change happens when we act together. Systems work best when they work for everyone.
By protecting the right to social security, we can build systems grounded in human rights, dignity and equality, so everyone can rely on the foundations they need to live well.
right to social security Resources
Read our blogs on the right to social security.
Explore our reports, briefings and submissions on social security and human rights.