CAB support review into help for disabled
Rutherglen and Cambuslang Citizens Advice Bureau has thrown its support behind calls for a review of disability assistance by the Scottish Government during the next parliament.
A new report makes several recommendations, which the CAB has backed, in the hope it will create a more“compassionate” system.
The Scottish Campaign on Rights to Social Security (SCoRSS) launched its vision for long- term improvements to social security for disabled people last week.
SCoRSS includes Citizens Advice Scotland, Inclusion Scotland, the Child Poverty Action Group in
Scotland, the Health and Social Care Alliance Scotland (the ALLIANCE), National Association of Welfare Rights Advisers (NAWRA), Scottish Council for Voluntary Organisations (SCVO), One Parent Families Scotland (OPFS), MS Society Scotland and the Scottish Independent Advocacy Alliance (SIAA).
Amongst its recommendations, the campaign is calling for:
a fully independent review of disability assistance accountable to and co-produced with disabled people and those with long-term health conditions
a human rights-based approach to be taken in the development of the newlydevolved benefits
social security for disabled people that supports their right to independent living
the support provided to be adequate so that disability assistance takes into account the extra costs associated with an impairment if a person is to fully enjoy their right to equal participation
Sharon Hampson, manager of the local CAB said:“In Rutherglen and Cambuslang we frequently help disabled people and those with long-term health conditions navigate the often complex social security system
“So far this year we have supported 684 people with queries about Personal Independence Payment, Disability Living Allowance, Employment Support Allowance and Attendance Allowance.
“It i clear to us that there is an opportunity for the system to be fairer and more compassionate as well as being based on dignity.
“So we support calls by SCoRSS for a review of disability assistance during the next Scottish Parliament as well as the long-term recommendations made by the campaign.”
CAB advice column – page 12