DISABLED people and carers will sit on panels to help vet new social security policies, as part of a bid to make Scottish benefits policy more humane, the Scottish Government has announced.
Social security minister Jeane Freeman said an expert panel headed by Scottish welfare expert Jim McCormick would also oversee the use of new devolved powers.
Her comments came as the government published a report on the findings of a consultation on social security in Scotland which she said backed the its plans to make elements of the benefits system more respectful of those needing to make a claim.
The report found widespread support for building a more humane social security system, Ms Freeman said, adding "we will work in partnership with the people of Scotland to do things in a different way, - one that is fairer, more inclusive, dignified and more respectful." But there respondents also wanted such values guaranteed by including a charter of rights within the social security bill which will be introduced to parliament in June, she added: "[this] strengthens our guarantee by going beyond warm words and creating a binding contract between the system and the people who use it."
Dr Jim McCormick, associate director for Scotland at the Joseph Rowntree Foundation, is to chair the Expert Advisory Group on Disability and Carer's Benefits, Ms Freeman said, while 'experience panels' will enable the views of disabled people and carers to be heard directly.
Dr McCormick said the advisory group would be independent and would not shy away from posing difficult questions. "Devolution of key disability and carer benefits marks a significant change for Scotland," he said. "Ensuring the process is safe and secure for the many people who rely on these payments now, and who will claim them in future, is the first priority."
An alliance of Scotland's major disability organisations welcomed the announcement. Layla Theiner, of Disability Agenda Scotland (DAS), said: “Over half of the £1.63bn social security budget being devolved is spent on disability benefits. This is a clear chance to improve key elements of the current system, particularly as disabled people have been adversely affected by cuts over recent years.
“We look forward to ensuring full implementation as soon as it is possible and practicable."
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