Better service vow for benefit claimants

Welfare bosses are pledging that Renfrewshire claimants seeking help under the new social security system, will be treated with dignity and respect.

Social security bosses have unveiled a new charter which will put customers at the heart of delivering the best of services to the public.

Holyrood said the document lists principles set out in the Social Security Act passed unanimously by Parliament last year.

Rob Gowans of Citizens Advice Scotland said:“Citizens Advice Scotland welcomes the launch of the charter.

“It is important that people who need support from the social security system are clear about their rights, what to expect and what they can do if that standard is not met.

“We know from people coming to their Citizens Advice Bureau for advice that this is not always the case so the charter is a positive step towards creating a system which treats people with dignity and respect at all times.”

Social Security Secretary ShirleyAnne Somerville added:“When people use a public service they should have no concerns about how they will be treated. Whatever the contact is about and whoever they speak to, they should have full confidence that they will be treated with dignity and respect.

“Notable commitments include treating people with kindness and empathy and developing policy in a way that advances the human right to social security.”

From April the new Social Security Act will deliver four new benefits including the Best Start Grant Nursery Age and School Age payments, Funeral Expense Assistance and Young Carer Grant.