Social Justice Secretary has commented
following publication of the Scottish Government's response to
the independent review of Adult Disability Payment (ADP),
published today (Thursday 19 February).
Ms Somerville said:
“I once again thank Ms Harris for her diligent and insightful
work. We deliberately designed our social security system on the
principles of fairness, dignity and respect and I am pleased this
independent review found that these values are being upheld.
“The Adult Disability Payment provides vital support for disabled
people to help with the everyday tasks that many of us take for
granted and this government remains committed to protecting it.
The recommendations in the review mark an important starting
point for the improvement of a benefit which has already had a
transformative impact.
“The Scottish Government and Social Security Scotland are quickly
implementing a number of the recommendations contained in the
review to deliver immediate improvements to Adult Disability
Payment processes. This includes improving the application
journey for clients, strengthening trauma‑informed practice and
enhancing staff training. We will also continue to focus our
efforts on reducing the stigma associated with applying for
benefits and other barriers to uptake to ensure that when someone
is entitled to support, they receive it.
“We will take further time to consider certain recommendations,
particularly those related to eligibility and entitlement, which
will require a full assessment of the practical and financial
implications of any changes and is, rightly, for the next
Scottish Government to determine. This will allow the required,
detailed work to be undertaken to ensure no change has
inadvertent or adverse consequences for clients or the wider
social security system.
“We will continue to work closely with Disabled People's
Organisations as we take forward the recommendations, ensuring
the Adult Disability Payment continues to operate effectively for
the people who rely on it.”
Background
The Scottish Government's
response to the independent review of Adult Disability
Payment
Easy read version of the
Scottish Government's response to the independent review of Adult
Disability Payment
Independent review of Adult
Disability Payment
Of the 59 recommendations in the independent review of Adult
Disability Payment (ADP), the Scottish Government has accepted 28
recommendations, will consider 24 recommendations further and has
rejected 7 recommendations.
The Adult Disability Payment is a payment to help with the
additional costs of being disabled or having a long-term health
condition. It is not an unemployment benefit and many of its
recipients are in full-time employment. More information:
Adult Disability Payment -
mygov.scot
An independent report from Resolution Foundation found
no evidence Adult Disability Payment is more leniently awarded
than Personal Independence Payment
