The following are a list of legal resources. Some may be accessible online or at your local library – however, some may also require a purchase.
The Child Poverty Action Group (CPAG)
‘Welfare Benefits and Tax Credits Handbook 2017/18’
This is known by advisors colloquially to be the welfare benefits law bible. It generally can answer practically any question in welfare benefits law. To be blunt, if the answer is not in the book, then it’s not likely to be in any other book. If you are running your own case at tribunal then could be extremely helpful.
Disability Rights UK
‘Disability Rights Handbook 2017-2018’
This is may be a simpler book, but it still covers the key issues and eligibility criteria for all of the welfare benefits in a very accessible format. It will also be found in every CAB and benefits advisor’s office in the country.
Government Sources
This helpful site is your portal for searching for just about any piece of UK law. However, this may be too complex for some users. But if you know what you are looking for, it is a great resource for finding UK law online, for free.
British and Irish Legal Information Institute (BAILLII)
BAILLII is a free database where you can search for British and Irish case law & legislation, European Union case law, Law Commission reports, and other law-related British and Irish material.
HM Courts & Tribunals Service
HM Courts & Tribunals Service Decisions
This website has previous decisions of the Social Security Tribunals which may be of assistance in arguing cases.
Department for Work and Pensions
‘DWP Staff Decision Makers Guides’
This website is used by the staff at the DWP to make decisions regarding your benefits and so is a great place to see how they may view a particular issue and come about their decisions. The content is usually up to date and has a significant amount of detail.
‘DWP Staff Decision Makers Guide for Universal Credit etc.’
The content on their site is used by DWP decision makers in relation to:
- Universal Credit
- Personal Independence Payment
- contribution-based Jobseeker’s Allowance and contribution-based Employment and Support Allowance for people who are eligible for Universal Credit