The social security system covers the entire population. It is partly based on contributions through the National Insurance scheme, but there are also benefits which are available to all who qualify, for instance there are universal child benefits, and the Working Families Tax Credit for people with children, which depends upon level of income.

For contributory benefits such as Jobseekers Allowance (unemployment benefit) there are different levels of contribution depending on earnings or employment status.

The system is administered by the Department of Social Security and you can contact the local social security office to find more information.

The web site of the DSS contains downloadable information and publications on most aspects of the British Social Security system.