Source · Select Committees · Scottish Affairs Committee
Recommendation 25
25
The Scottish Government and the DWP should work together and seek agreement before announcing further...
Conclusion
The Scottish Government and the DWP should work together and seek agreement before announcing further Scottish Choices options to ensure there is no delay in roll out. We therefore recommend the following: a) That Scottish Choices be made available to a claimant from the start of their Universal Credit claim. b) That both the Scottish Government and the DWP better advertise the availability of Scottish Choices through the initial online claim process, through the Citizens Advice Scotland Help to Claim service, and through the first meeting with the work coach. c) That discussions about Scottish Choices between claimants and work coaches happen frequently throughout a claimant’s time on Universal Credit. We understand that these conversations could take place via journal entries if the claimant is happy with this approach. d) That the Scottish Government and the DWP work together and agree details and administration before announcing further Scottish Choices options. This would ensure that there are no delays as has been seen with the roll out of split payment and removal of the underoccupancy charge Scottish Choices options. (Paragraph 148) 8 Welfare policy in Scotland 1 Introduction
Government Response
Not Addressed
HM Government
Not Addressed
The Scottish Government’s current policy is to offer Scottish Choices in the second assessment period. This allows time, in the first assessment period, to consider DWP Alternative Payment Arrangement, for more frequent payments and managed payments to landlords to protect vulnerable people who are at risk of not paying their rent. Social landlords are also able to request a DWP Alternative Payment Arrangement from day one, if they believe their tenants are vulnerable. Scottish Choices do not replace the need for DWP Alternative Payment Arrangements. Claimants can opt in or out of a Scottish Choice at any time. Only DWP agents can review Alternative Payment Arrangements, ensuring housing costs continue to be paid directly to the landlord, for those who may otherwise choose not to pay them.