As a core part of social security system in Hong Kong, the Comprehensive Social Security Assistance (CSSA) Scheme has undergone some changes since its establishment more than 20 years ago. However, there is still much room for improvement before it can fully meet the needs of the grassroots. This year the government is reviewing the CSSA. In view of this, this issue of Policy Bulletin “CSSA Review” aims to explore how to improve Hong Kong’s social security system with special attention to CSSA. The related issues explored include reviewing the levels of Standard Rates and Supplement, allowing household as an entity of application, developing social insurance system, devising personalized assistance to effectively encourage employment, and strengthening recipients to grasp precise information about the CSSA system. At the same time, this issue contains the major recommendations on reforming CSSA that are advocated by the Council.

For enquiries, please contact Ms. Natalie Yau, Officer of Policy Research and Advocacy (Social Development) at [email protected] or 2864-2967. To get a hard copy, please contact Ms. Connie Chen, Programme Executive of Policy Research and Advocacy (Social Development) at [email protected] or 2864-2963.