At the beginning of the 21st century, both Britain and Japan are facing similar issues caused by globalisation, slower economic growth, and a rapidly ageing population. Social policy in the two societies, which has developed differently due to the differences in their national resources, socio-economic systems, cultural values and political agendas, is at an interesting turning point. This work provides a background to the development of post-war social policy in Britain and Japan. Five specific policy areas - ageing, domestic violence, housing, homelessness, and health - are chosen for analysis, each exploring its development process of policy and practices, current issues, and future directions. "Comparing Social Policies": examines topical issues with up-to-date information; compares and contrasts selected policy areas between the two societies; and presents original material written by leading scholars in each country. This book should be of great interest to academics and students, as well as policy makers and practitioners internationally, who are interested in various fields of social policy in Britain and Japan.