Source · Select Committees · Scottish Affairs Committee
Recommendation 134
134
According to DWP figures from November 2020, 35,608 Universal Credit claimants had chosen the Scottish...
Conclusion
According to DWP figures from November 2020, 35,608 Universal Credit claimants had chosen the Scottish Choices option of having their rent paid directly to their landlord, whilst 77,100 people had chosen to receive the more frequent payment option whilst receiving Universal Credit.330 Uptake of Scottish Choices
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.