Wellbeing in policy contexts

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  • Policy context
  • Common Understanding
  • Examples
  • Wellbeing in Government
  • Wellbeing research

Wellbeing is an explicit focus in a diverse range of policy contexts; not only health and social policy, but also those that relate to the environment and economic policy. Wellbeing focused policies tend to highlight individuals’ experiences of their lives as a fundamental goal rather than focussing solely on the objective factors assumed to affect them. A better understanding of the role that the natural environment plays in supporting human wellbeing, for example, has been important in developing new approaches to taking its value into account in policy decision making processes. In health and social policy, a wellbeing focus has encouraged an emphasis on the importance of the control that individuals have over their own lives, including periods when they may need high levels of support. It also promotes “upstream” or preventative interventions, such as shifting attention towards maintaining health rather than only treating ill-health.

Policy makers see a wellbeing perspective as valuable in challenging accepted ways of viewing policy and thus encouraging innovative approaches. In a number of contexts a wellbeing focus has promoted an increased awareness and recognition of the combined effects of social, economic and environmental factors. It has helped to promote joint working and a more holistic approach to policy making.

A Common Understanding of wellbeing for policy makers

Defra has worked with other Government departments, the devolved administrations and other stakeholders to develop a common understanding of what wellbeing means in a policy context. It is intended to support those wishing to take a greater policy focus on wellbeing and to promote consistency.

Please follow the links to examples of how wellbeing concepts are being used in a policy context, also see a list of wellbeing policy initiatives including central government research.