WELFARE

(HELP) [noun] [U] - help given, esp. by the state or an organization, to people who need it, esp. because they do not have enough moneyThis national fund pays for welfare benefits such as unemployment and sickness pay.The party was urged to set up a commission to enquire into tax, income distribution and welfare policy.Spending cuts are expected in education, transport and social welfare.They interviewed workers at a welfare agency operating in the Klong Poey slums.(UK) After her month's sick leave she was summoned to see the company's welfare officer.(US) If a person is on welfare, they are receiving financial help from the state because they are poor or have not been employed for a long time.A welfare state is a system of taxation which allows the government of a country to provide social services such as health care, unemployment pay, etc. to people who need them.