Source · Select Committees · Scottish Affairs Committee
Recommendation 143
143
The Minister for Welfare Delivery, said that ‘information is available through gov.uk [UK Government website]...
Conclusion
The Minister for Welfare Delivery, said that ‘information is available through gov.uk [UK Government website] as part of the Universal Credit application, which outlines what Scottish Choices are and how they operate.’352 Margarita Morrison, Area Director, Work and Health Services Scotland of the DWP, also explained that whilst the Department hoped that Work Coaches would make claimants aware of the Scottish Choices,353 the priority for the Department was ‘getting to know the customer’ and ensuring that their first Universal Credit payment was in place and only then would the Department ‘discuss Scottish Choices thereafter.’354 Future roll out of further 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.