Government supports people's ability to earn a living and their quality of life through conditions for work, public services and help with essential needs. Economic growth alone does not show that everyone is doing well.
Economic well-being concerns people's ability to earn a living and afford basic needs. Infrastructure such as transport and electricity helps workplaces function and workers reach jobs; education and training can build skills employers need. Government can improve these conditions, but a programme's name alone does not show how anyone benefits.
Social well-being includes health, housing, safety, education and the ability to participate in community life. Public services and financial assistance can make essential support more accessible. Economic and social well-being overlap: ill health can limit a person's ability to work, while insufficient income can make care harder to afford.
Government is responsible for supporting citizens' well-being. This does not mean every person has the same outcome. Services need resources and may not reach everyone equally. Check affordability, accessibility, quality and the experiences of different groups.
Worked example: Two barriers faced by a worker
A worker needs new skills to apply for available jobs and regular care for a long-term health condition. A public training programme offers evening classes, while subsidised clinic care - with government paying part of the cost - reduces the cost of treatment.
- Evening classes make training easier to attend while working. Relevant skills can improve access to job opportunities, supporting economic well-being.
- Affordable treatment can help the worker manage the condition and daily activities, supporting social well-being and the ability to work.
- Neither measure guarantees a job or good health. Check whether the worker can access the services and whether the support addresses the actual barriers.
Watch out for this
If the economy grows, every citizen's economic and social needs must be met.
Growth is an overall measure. Examine who gains access to jobs, income and services, and who still faces barriers.
Check your understanding
A training scheme enrols more people, but some cannot attend because they care for family members. Which conclusion is best supported?
- The scheme offers opportunities, but attendance barriers affect who can benefit.
- Every enrolled person must now have a better-paid job.
- Training cannot contribute to economic well-being because some people face barriers.