A Bill allowing the Scottish Government to make the first social security payments later this year has been passed by Parliament. Last night’s unanimous vote means MSPs have passed the Social Security (Scotland) Bill establishing Scotland’s first social security system.
Social Security Scotland, the new agency, will be responsible for the delivery of 11 devolved benefits to 1.4 million people a year, worth around £3.3 billion.
Social Security Minister Jeane Freeman said: “This is a historic moment, one that sets up a new public service for Scotland.
“Our system will be different. It will be rights based, with a right to independent advocacy for those who need it; fast-tracked arrangements and no arbitrary timescale for people with terminal illness; the right to have a supporter and the right to challenge decisions without having your money instantly cut.
“Now we turn to the work already underway to enable us to deliver. By the end of the summer the first Scottish payments will be being made with our 13% increase to Carers Allowance, we have our interim headquarters and are recruiting the first staff.
“Many people and organisations have played their part in creating this Bill and we are grateful to them all. It is a milestone piece of legislation, which provides the foundation for a social security service built on dignity, fairness and respect.”
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