CONSTITUENTS with direct experience in the current social security system are being encouraged to help shape Scotland’s new system.
Strathkelvin and Bearsden MSP Rona Mackay is encouraging people in the constituency to get involved. Experienced Panels comprising people who use the current system will give their views on the design of Scotland’s new system and how to build and refine a better model.
Registration is now live and people can do so online and by post, while a phone-line will also be available for those who do not have online access or need additional support.
The panels will work closely with the Expert Advisory Group on Disability and Carers’ Benefits, chaired by Dr Jim McCormick, associate director for Scotland with the Joseph Rowntree Foundation.
Ms Mackay said: “The key to making a success of a new social security system in Scotland is ensuring it works for the people who rely on it. From the very beginning of this process, the SNP government has ensured it must be shaped by those who truly know what is needed.
“I am disgusted by the sanctioning and humiliation rife within the current Westminster system – the direct consequence has been poverty and food banks.
“It cannot go on, and we will ensure with what social security powers we have that the people of Scotland treated with the dignity and respect they deserve.”
ENDS
People can register online: www.gov.scot/socialsecurity
Email: SocialSecurityExperience@gov.scot
Freephone: 0800 029 4974 (includes language line translation)
Text: Prefix 18001
SMS: 07467 447375
British Sign Language (BSL) users can contact us via http://contactscotland-bsl.org