“This new bill will make the system more efficient and effective,” said Natalie Don MSP commenting on new legislation aimed at improving the way the Scottish system of social security delivers for people in need of support.
The Social Security (Amendment) (Scotland) Bill enhances the rights of Social Security Scotland clients in a number of ways:
• A right to late re-determinations and appeals in exceptional circumstances
• The right to withdraw a request for redetermination
• The right to challenge a decision that someone is liable in a situation where an overpayment has been made
The Bill will also continue to enhance the design of the system, maximising choice for those who use it while delivering good value for money. It will also enable the Scottish Government to recover the cost of devolved social security benefits from compensation awards in situations where someone has had to claim payments as a result of a third party’s fault.
New legislation to improve social security in Scotland
This new bill will make the system more efficient and effective.
Natalie Don MSP added:
“Scotland has built a social security system centred on dignity, fairness and respect, a far cry from the UK Government’s DWP system, however we know there are always more ways to improve. The changes proposed are part of the Scottish Government’s commitment to continuously enhance the Scottish social security system in ways which put the needs of those who require assistance first.
“They will help make the social security system more efficient and effective, contributing to our mission to tackle poverty and protect people from harm.