Progress is being made with improving the exchange of information between different public agencies. However, better information systems to which all relevant authorities have direct access are needed to make eligibility verification work, and deliver social support to those who really need it. The NOBUS survey provided a wealth of information on the effects of policy, but it was held in 2003 and has not been followed up. The introduction of a similar initiative on a regular basis would help policymakers to choose more effective policies and the actions from this would more than justify the cost of the survey.