The Department for Work and Pensions announced that Dr. Stephen Brien has been reappointed as Chair of the Social Security Advisory Committee (SSAC). 

The Social Security Advisory Committee (SSAC) is an independent statutory body that provides impartial advice on social security and related matters. It scrutinises most of the complex secondary legislation that underpins the social security system.

Stephen has been Chair of SSAC since September 2020 and has brought analytical and consulting experience to diagnosing the issues and developing implementable solutions, including through his work developing welfare reform agendas with the Centre for Social Justice.

Minister for Lords, Baroness Sherlock said:

"I am pleased to announce the reappointment of Dr. Stephen Brien as Chair of the Social Security Advisory Committee."

"Since 2020, Stephen has provided valuable insights and leadership that have been instrumental in providing evidence-led insights on departmental policy."

"With his extensive experience, Stephen’s contributions will continue to benefit SSAC and our department. I look forward to continuing our work together."

Dr. Stephen Brien said:

"I am honoured to have been invited to serve for a further term. I have long respected the important work of this Committee and its impartial, evidence-led advice to successive Secretaries of State. "

"Over the past five years, I have been privileged to contribute during a period of unprecedented challenges—from supporting the government’s response to the Covid pandemic in 2020, to ensuring social security regulations were updated expeditiously following EU withdrawal and, more recently, providing scrutiny and advice on major disability policy reforms."

"Social security touches the lives of millions of families, and I look forward to continuing this vital work that makes such a meaningful difference to so many."

Dr. Brien will take up his post from 15 September 2025 to 14 September 2028 for a three-year term.

Further information

• The Chair of the Social Security Advisory Committee is appointed by the Secretary of State for the Department for Work and Pensions. This appointment was made following an open competition regulated by The Office for the Commissioner of Public Appointments.
• Remuneration for the Chairman’s role is £35,200 based on a minimum time commitment of 8 days per month.
• More information about the Social Security Advisory Committee can be found here: Social Security Advisory Committee - GOV.UK