The Department for Health and Social Security was a ministry of the British Government for 20 years from 1968 until 1988.

Previously, the social security responsibilities had been held by the Ministry of Pensions and National Insurance, and the health responsibilities by the Ministry of Health.

The two portfolios were demerged in 1988. 'Social Security' is now covered by the Department for Work and Pensions, and 'health' by the Department of Health.