The Divisive State of Social Policy

“Focussing on the so called 'bedroom tax' this book aptly exposes the particularly cruel turn in recent policies directed towards those with the least. The book shows very clearly how grossly damaging, unnecessary and unfair policies can be completely misrepresented as necessary, just and fair.” Tracy Shildrick, Newcastle University

‘’Based on the research the author undertook for her Ph.D. thesis on the effects of the ‘bedroom tax’…this book is an example of precisely the kind of subject for which qualitative research is so important.’’ Citizen’s Basic Income

“This is a very good book, skilfully illustrating how ‘social tenants’ are part of the ‘precariat’ experiencing a life without predictability or security in intermittent, low paid work. All in all, the ‘bedroom tax’ was just another brick in the wall.” Journal of Social Policy

"Eminently relevant to those interested in critical social policy analysis. While Bogue is primarily writing about the implications of the Bedroom Tax on social housing residents, her argumentation is far broader and provides and insightful critique on normalised precarity as part of a neoliberal regime." Critical Social Policy

Kelly Bogue is a Research Associate and Postgraduate Research Tutor at the Centre for Trust, Peace and Social Relations, Coventry University.

Introduction: the repositioning of social housing and welfare provision

Life without state-supported housing

Living in a state of insecurity

Social housing insecurity as policy and ideology

Divisive social policy: the competition for physical and symbolic resources

Community and belonging

Housing precarity and advanced marginality in the UK