Owen McCloskey
Biography
Owen McCloskey is a practicing solicitor that specialises in social security and is currently serving as the Head of Social Security at Law Centre NI. In this role Owen supervises a team that delivers advice and representation in complex matters that help provide a wider understanding of the law.
Owen has extensive experience in test case litigation before tribunals and higher courts. In his role he also has experience in the development of accessible training materials and resources to assist frontline advisers utilise the law effectively.
Owen is a Justice First Fellow who is committed to using legal education to promote access to social justice. He provides teaching at both universities in Northern Ireland, supporting the clinical legal experience of law students.
He has also previously trained and supervised volunteers in a unit providing free representation at social security and employment tribunals. His academic qualifications include a law degree and a master’s in criminology, and he has contributed to various forums and publications aimed at improving social security and benefits decision-making.
Owen is also an independent member of the Social Security Standards Committee in Northern Ireland.
Committee member
Social Security Advisory Committee (SSAC) members are appointed by the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions to:
- give advice on social security issues as it sees fit
- consider and report on social security regulations that have been referred to it
- advise on matters referred to it by the Secretary of State or the Northern Ireland department responsible for social security
- scrutinise the products produced by the Department for Work and Pensions