Non-stigmatizing social protection policies have positive effects on reducing health inequities relating to income insecurity and poverty.

Parental leave policies and statutory pensions provide protection against income insecurity at particular stages of the life-course, at which differences in income can have particularly adverse health effects. Investment in social protection for the early years and for families serves to support parents with low resources in giving their children a healthy start in life, as well as weakening the link between socioeconomic disadvantage and poor child health outcomes, including infant mortality.

Unemployment benefit coverage has a health equity impact when it provides a minimum income for those seeking work. Housing-related social protection policies can narrow differences in housing deprivation by reducing differences in income insecurity. This is one way through which social protection can reduce health inequities.