This study reports the findings of a large national survey in the United Kingdom. Different systems of compensation and support for the injured, ill or congenitally handicapped and their families are examined. The contributors assess the roles of government agencies, local authorities,employers, and informal organizations in providing such services as social security, criminal injuries compensation, sick pay, and private insurance. The work will be of interest to lawyers, government officials, social security officers, and all others working with people seeking compensatin foraccident and injury.