New Appointments to Social Security Advisory Committee Announced
The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has confirmed the appointment of Richard Machin and Owen McCloskey as new members of the Social Security Advisory Committee (SSAC). Both will begin their five-year terms on 1 January 2026, contributing their expertise to key discussions affecting social security policies in the UK.
Details on the Appointees
Richard Machin
Richard Machin is an Associate Professor at Nottingham Trent University and brings significant experience in social policy. His expertise includes welfare rights, social security, and policy research, with recent focus on the ramifications of COVID-19 for low-income families. Machin has previously served as an expert witness during the COVID-19 Inquiry and has actively engaged in national debates regarding social security and poverty alleviation.
Owen McCloskey
Owen McCloskey, a practising solicitor, is the Head of Social Security at Law Centre NI. In this capacity, he oversees a team providing legal advice and representation in complex social security issues. McCloskey is well-versed in litigation and training development, with a commitment to enhancing social security decision-making. Additionally, he is a Justice First Fellow and contributes to legal education in Northern Ireland.
Official Reactions
Baroness Sherlock OBE, DWP Minister of Lords, expressed confidence in the appointments, noting the valuable perspectives Machin and McCloskey will bring to the Committee, which is pivotal in advising on social security reforms. Dr Stephen Brien, Chair of SSAC, echoed similar sentiments, highlighting their diverse skills that will help tackle pressing social issues.
About the Social Security Advisory Committee
Formed in 1980, the SSAC is an independent statutory entity that advises the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions on legislative amendments and social security issues. Appointments to the SSAC are regulated by the Commissioner for Public Appointments and adhere to the Governance Code for Public Appointments. Members are compensated with a daily fee for a commitment of 2 to 3 days per month.
Context and Importance
The SSAC plays a crucial role in shaping social security policies that affect millions in the UK. With current discussions around welfare reform and the impact of economic changes on vulnerable populations, the insights brought by Machin and McCloskey are timely and significant. Their backgrounds suggest that they will provide comprehensive viewpoints on how best to address social security challenges moving forward.
Source: official statements, news agencies, and public reports.
https://www.gov.uk/government/news/appointments-to-the-social-security-advisory-committee-january-2025
