The Scottish Government has announced proposals for the introduction of three new devolved benefits which will be rolled out by 2025. The details have been published as part of an updated Social Security Programme Business Case.
Carer Support Payment will be the first of the three benefits to be rolled out as part of a pilot scheme by the end of this year followed by a national launch in Spring 2024 and will replace Carer’s Allowance for new applicants. Social Security Scotland said it is continuing to work with the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) to develop processes that will ensure those already in receipt of Carer’s Allowance will have their award transferred automatically to the devolved IT system - so that people will not need to reapply.
A phased pilot scheme is due to start in Autumn 2024 for Pension Age Disability Payment, which will replace Attendance Allowance, before a national launch in early 2025. At the end of 2024, Social Security Scotland also plans to launch Pension Age Winter Heating Assistance.
