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Read Item H below and answer the question that follows - AQA - A-Level Sociology - Question 12 - 2018 - Paper 2
Question 12
Read Item H below and answer the question that follows. Item H A mixed economy of welfare provision involves the private, informal and voluntary sectors as well as ... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Read Item H below and answer the question that follows - AQA - A-Level Sociology - Question 12 - 2018 - Paper 2
Step 1
Evaluate the claim that a mixed economy of welfare provision is the most effective way of meeting the needs of the population.
Answer
To begin with, the mixed economy of welfare provision, as stated in Item H, combines various sectors including private, informal, voluntary, and state sectors. This multifaceted approach can theoretically address diverse needs by offering tailored services. For instance, family and friends provide personalized care, which can often be closer to the specific needs of individuals compared to standardized state provisions.
Despite its potential advantages, critics highlight significant drawbacks, notably the exploitation of informal carers. Informal care, while valuable, may lead to an uneven burden on family members, especially women, who disproportionately take on caregiving roles. This can result in financial and emotional strain, suggesting that while informal care can be efficient, it often lacks the stability and support that formal care structures provide.
Furthermore, the quality and availability of services vary widely across different sectors. The private sector may prioritize profit over care, which can compromise the quality of services provided. This inconsistency can undermine the effectiveness of a mixed economy in meeting population needs adequately.
In evaluating this claim, it seems that the effectiveness of a mixed economy largely hinges on the balance and integration of these various sectors, rather than the concept itself. A purely mixed approach, when managed well, has the potential to leverage the strengths of each sector. However, without robust regulation and support frameworks, the system risks perpetuating inequalities and inadequacies that leave vulnerable populations underserved.
In conclusion, while a mixed economy may hold promise for a customizable welfare provision strategy, the evaluation must account for the structural issues and inequalities inherent within each sector. Advocacy for better support systems for informal carers and stronger regulations for the private sector could enhance the effectiveness of this approach.