Exploring the devolution of social security administration

This report examines the opportunities, challenges, risks and costs of devolving the administrative elements of social security to Wales. The research focuses on administration only, not the wholesale devolution of social security policy.

A mixed-methods approach was employed, including a Rapid Evidence Assessment (REA) of evidence and data, an online stakeholder survey and interviews, and further in-depth case studies focusing on lessons from Scotland and two practical models relevant to Wales.

Overall, the research highlights opportunities for a devolved and more flexible, person‑centred and Welsh‑tailored system that could make a positive difference in several areas including children and families, benefits disability and ill‑health, employment/jobcentres, and housing. There are, however, structural and practical challenges to overcome, including limited data access, significant upfront and ongoing costs, restricted local capacity, and dependence on UK‑wide systems and rules, as well as a need to simplify processes, reduce distress from current assessments and provide better support for older and digitally excluded people.