Day: February 26, 2026

Tackling stigma around social security

Survey shows stigma could be holding people back from seeking support

People may be missing out on social security support they are entitled to due to stigma around social security, new research shows.

Independent research commissioned by Social Security Scotland found that while nine in ten (91%) people agree anyone could need financial support when their circumstances change – four in ten (39%) say applying would make them feel less positive about themselves. This rises to almost half (48%) among 16 to 34-year-olds.

The survey also shows how negative portrayals could be fuelling this. Three quarters (75%) of people believe those who receive social security support are portrayed negatively by politicians and/or the media. Almost four in ten (39%) of people surveyed agreed people who receive social security are judged negatively by their family and friends.

Social Justice Secretary Shirley-Anne Somerville said: “Everyone should be able to access support without fear or shame, and these findings reinforce why we are delivering social security differently in Scotland — through a system rooted in dignity, fairness and respect.

“From the language we use to how we deliver our services – we designed our social security system based on feedback from people with lived experience. This has included using more compassionate language in letters, providing help in a format or language that best suits the individual and offering help with applications online, over the phone and in person. We all share responsibility for talking about social security with kindness – words matter.

“We’ll continue to work with clients and stakeholders to make further improvements and help break down the barriers that stop too many people getting the help they are entitled to.”

David Reilly, Communities and Networks Manager at Poverty Alliance added: “Our social security is a public good like the NHS – it’s there for everybody, especially those who need it most.

“There are 1.1 million people in Scotland who are struggling today on a low income – they have the same right to thrive as everybody else.

“But prejudice and negative stereotypes, often starting in our media and politics, then trickling down into our own communities and families – this unfair judgement can hold people back from reaching out and claiming what they’re entitled to – sometimes to the point of starvation and destitution. That’s simply wrong.

“Together, we can stand up for each other and reclaim the idea of social security as a basic human right, and a foundation that allows people to build better futures for themselves and their households.”

Karen Wylie, Policy and Participation Manager at Glasgow Disability Alliance (GDA) added: “GDA hears from our members that disability benefits are a lifeline not a luxury for disabled people.

“In our survey conducted in October 2025, we heard that stigma played a significant, prohibitive role in how and when people apply for benefits.

“Our members call for a change in narrative around social security so that it’s seen as a human right that not only covers the basics but also covers the additional costs of being disabled and enables people to live full and participative lives with choice and control.” 

Scottish Government confirms Public Inquiry into group-based child sexual abuse

Professor Alexis Jay to chair statutory Inquiry

Professor Alexis Jay has agreed to chair a statutory Public Inquiry to examine Scotland’s response to group-based child sexual abuse and exploitation (CSAE).

In a statement to Parliament, Education Secretary Jenny Gilruth confirmed the Scottish Government’s intention to establish a targeted independent Inquiry and establish a Scottish Truth Project.

The Inquiry will focus on the prevalence of group-based CSAE now and in the recent past, whether brought forward by survivors or relating to findings from the independent National Review being led by four Inspectorates.

The new Inquiry will be distinct from the Scottish Child Abuse Inquiry (SCAI), chaired by Lady Smith. The Scottish Government will ensure the new Inquiry does not duplicate the valuable work of the SCAI.

The scope of the Inquiry and its detailed terms of reference will be finalised and confirmed in due course, following input from Prof Jay.

The Education Secretary also announced that the Government intends to establish a Truth Project in Scotland, to enable victims and survivors of CSAE to share their experiences to help inform change and access support.  

Ms Gilruth said: “Survivors of abuse want to see accountability and improvement delivered as quickly as possible, and that sense of urgency is shared by the Scottish Government.

“We are determined to act decisively to protect children from the horrendous harm of child sexual abuse and exploitation.

“I consider the establishment of a Public Inquiry to be essential, and from discussions I know Professor Jay wants to ensure that the Inquiry is carried out at pace. Announcing an Independent Public Inquiry today will not cure all which has come before, but it is a statement of intent from this Government that we will leave no stone unturned in the pursuit of justice for survivors of child sexual abuse.

“The work of the National Review and Police Scotland’s ongoing review of cases of group-based abuse will ensure that any improvements that must be made to practice or action to bring perpetrators to justice is taken as quickly as possible.

“The Truth Project, to be led by John O’Brien, will ensure that the voice of survivors is central to our collective efforts so that every action is informed by their experience and brings about the changes they have told me must be made.”

Professor Alexis Jay said: “The sexual and criminal exploitation of children entails abuse of the most horrific kind, usually at the hands of many perpetrators. The Public Inquiry will get to the truth of exploitation in Scotland in the past and the present, in order to prevent it in the future.

“It will examine the extent to which public authorities and other organisations effectively identify the risk of child exploitation and take action to protect children. I will engage with victims and survivors early, as the terms of reference are formed.”

Education Secretary’s statement to Parliament on protecting children from harm.

Commenting on the Scottish Government announcement today of a public inquiry into grooming gangs in Scotland, Mary Glasgow, Chief Executive of Children First said: “Children First have long supported victims and survivors of child sexual abuse to fight for better systems of prevention, detection and protection. Scotland has a duty to confront the harm children have suffered and to put a stop to more children being abused.  

“We now need to see full details of this inquiry so we can understand its scope and how it will ensure children’s voices and rights are placed at its centre.

“What cannot wait is urgent investment in specialist support like that provided by Bairns Hoose. This must be made available to every child who needs it so they can safely disclose harm and receive all the help they need to heal and reclaim their childhood.”