Benefits Bill to include right to supporter

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.

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 accessing benefits and help.”

The amendment makes provision for individuals to attend any meetings and assessments with a supporter 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.”

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

If passed, Scotland’s new social security service will begin delivering devolved benefits from this summer.