Source · Select Committees · Scottish Affairs Committee
Recommendation 130
130
The Scotland Act 2016 afforded the Scottish Government the opportunity to make changes to the...
Conclusion
The Scotland Act 2016 afforded the Scottish Government the opportunity to make changes to the way in which Universal Credit is administered to claimants in Scotland. However, Universal Credit remains a reserved benefit which means the DWP retain control of Universal Credit, and it is paid to claimants by the DWP, not the Scottish Government.
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.