Source · Select Committees · Scottish Affairs Committee
Recommendation 57
57
As discussed in Chapter two, there are different policy approaches and choices relating to reducing...
Conclusion
As discussed in Chapter two, there are different policy approaches and choices relating to reducing poverty through social security policies. This diversity creates different benefit administration and communication processes and responsibilities. We heard from the Cabinet Secretary for Social Security and Older People, Shirley-Anne Somerville MSP, that ‘We can make things work behind the scenes—and we certainly should do—to ensure that this is seamless for people and is not complicated for them any more than it needs to be, but they will still, I think, have a very different service experience when they approach the agency and when they approach the DWP.’124 The Joseph Rowntree Foundation stated in their written evidence that ‘the different policy choices in Scotland are positive and command public support. However, divergence also creates challenges: firstly, complexity – particularly for claimants but also for advice agencies seeking to advise them and each tier of the system (local, Social Security Scotland and DWP).’125 A consistent message that we heard in our evidence was that people experiencing poverty ‘do not care where their money comes from; they just care that they are getting it’126 so they can pay their essential bills and make ends meet. Reducing the complexity for people experiencing poverty
Government Response
Not Addressed
HM Government
Not Addressed
The UK Government recognises the Committee’s observation of the mutual respect between the UK and Scottish Governments and that both are working towards the safe and secure devolution of aspects of social security to the Scottish Government. It is positive to see DWP’s response to the pandemic highlighted in the report, reflecting on the fact that Universal Credit was able to stand up to the challenge faced during covid leading to increased number of claimants. The increase in work coaches by 1,152 in Scotland, and the increase in specialist disability employment advisors, helped to ensure access to reserved benefits was improved for claimants in Scotland. The tribute to DWP employees (referenced in Paragraphs 15, 23, 81 and 93), will be particularly appreciated by colleagues throughout the country. The UK Government also welcomes the acknowledgement of its agreement to provide services under agency arrangements while the Scottish Government builds its capacity to deliver its replacement benefits. The UK Government notes the Committee’s recommendations and responds to them below. Page and paragraph numbers from the report are used for reference.