‘Bring a friend’ rights for benefits claimants

PEOPLE applying for benefits under Scotland’s new welfare system will have the right to have someone accompany them to assessments and meetings, the Scottish Government has said.

The change is one of a number of key amendments to the Social Security (Scotland) Bill being brought forward by ministers as the legislation passes through its second stage at the Scottish Parliament.

The bill will give the government the power to deliver 11 devolved benefits through a new Scottish social security agency, including disability living allowance, the winter fuel payment and the carer’s allowance.

Commenting on the amendment, social security minister Jeane Freeman said: “We know the current DWP system can make people nervous about health assessments when accessing benefits.

“People can feel that instead of being about assessing needs and what support is necessary, assessments can feel like a barrier to ac- cessing benefits and help.”

The amendment makes provision for individuals to attend any meetings and assessments with a supporter, such as a family member, friend or voluntary worker, and for that supporter to make representations on their behalf.

Ms Freeman added: “We have all been in situations where we could do with a helping hand from someone who knows us, or just a bit of moral support.

“This is proof that Scotland will do things differently.”

The Bill is expected to reach the end of its second stage in March, with a final vote due before the end of the parliamentary year.

If passed, Scotland’s new social security service will begin delivering devolved benefits from this summer, starting with the carer’s allowance supplement.

A Department for Work and Pensions spokesman said: “We’re very clear that people are free to bring someone along to their assessment and welcome the move by the Scottish Government to uphold this right.”