Stigma in the system: Experiences of the UK social security system

About this research  

Stigma in the System is a report from University of Bristol’s Personal Finance Research Centre. 

Commissioned by Turn2us and generously funded by Royal London as part of a long-term strategic relationship, this Stigma in the system research explores how stigma shapes experiences of the UK social security system. 

Read the full report here.

The impact of stigma 

Stigma in the UK social security system is more than a matter of hurt feelings, it has deep and measurable consequences for individuals, communities, and the system itself. It can push people to delay or avoid claiming the support they are entitled to, worsening financial hardship, fuelling debt, and undermining health and wellbeing.  

For government and society, this can mean higher downstream costs in healthcare, social services, and crisis support, alongside the economic losses of reduced participation in work and community life.  

Stigma operates in multiple, overlapping ways:  

• through the way the system is designed and delivered 
• through public attitudes and media narratives 
• through the internalisation of negative stereotypes by those who need support.  

These dynamics not only damage individual lives but also erode trust in the social security system, making it less effective as a safety net for everyone. This research examines how stigma is produced, reinforced, and experienced in the UK social security system; how it shapes perceptions and behaviours; and what this means for financial security and wellbeing.  

Our commitment to tackling stigma 

At Turn2us, we’re working to improve people’s experiences of accessing the social security system. At the same time, we’re pushing for a fairer system, one that’s based on compassion, and fit for the 21st century.  

Our commitment is ongoing and strategic: tackling the deep-rooted barriers that keep people from financial security, and driving the systemic change needed to remove them. We know this cannot be achieved by one organisation, through one project, or in a short space of time. Instead, it requires sustained effort, collaboration, and a willingness to confront the social and structural challenges that hold people back. 

This research is the first step towards transforming our social security system, so that it works as originally designed; an effective safety net for everyone, rooted in dignity and trust, and a springboard giving each of us the confidence to bounce back and move forward.