To develop an evidence-based understanding of the identified problem

To determine the procedures for implementing the final policy

To evaluate whether an implemented policy has achieved its objectives

To obtain formal authority for a proposed policy response

Provincial differences indicate that the national policy has failed.

Social welfare programmes operate independently of policy frameworks.

National social welfare policies should prescribe identical interventions in every setting.

Social welfare services can translate broader policy direction into context-specific responses.

Participation, empowerment and economic development

Philanthropy, voluntarism and temporary assistance

Relief, dependency and professional control

Eligibility, targeting and statutory intervention

They integrate economic development into social service provision.

They ensure that welfare services become universally available.

They help target limited assistance towards people assessed as being in need.

They allow communities to determine national welfare priorities.

Prioritisation of administrative convenience

Restriction of services to people able to contribute economically

Dependence on voluntary support

Protection of human dignity and equitable access to opportunities

Administrative efficiency

Residual intervention

Market participation

Social justice advocacy

Government has transferred too much decision-making authority to communities.

Too many different stakeholders are involved in policy development.

The perspectives of affected groups may not be adequately represented in the policy process.

Professional expertise has been given insufficient consideration.

Statutory enforcement

Policy research and advocacy

Charitable relief

Financial administration

A social worker referring a client to another service provider

A household receiving temporary food assistance

A person being prevented from accessing employment and services because of discrimination

A community participating in municipal planning