Social Security Scotland has said that since Adult Disability Payment (ADP) was introduced last year, most people receive a decision letter within four months, however, some new claimants are waiting longer - up to seven months, according to recent reports. This is something Scotland’s devolved welfare system said was “unacceptable” and explained that work is underway to make sure people get faster decisions.
Social Security Scotland said this includes: “redeploying staff from elsewhere in the organisation to work on processing applications and introducing a faster call back to those who submit an application without supporting information.”
The Scottish Government recently announced that third sector organisations are to be paid a fee for helping provide supporting information for people applying for Child Disability Payment or Adult Disability Payment. The £33.50 fee will be paid when they are asked by Social Security Scotland to complete a supporting information request form - this is also expected to speed up the process.
People who are applying for disability benefits who find it difficult or face barriers gathering supporting information themselves will be able to name organisations to provide this for them. These can include third sector organisations that are helping them in their day-to-day lives, such as those offering social care or support during an illness - find out more about this here.
Social Security Scotland also said that additional work is underway to make it clearer for claimants to understand what helpful supporting information looks like.
It said: “Research has found some people have it to-hand but do not realise it. This might be because they are not clear on the kinds of documents that are useful to us, such as social care assessments, prescription lists or appointment letters. However, it can also be because they don't realise supporting information can come from a range of professionals.”
Here is an example Social Security Scotland gave:
- If someone regularly sees a therapist or support worker, they could be a better source of supporting information than a GP they may not have had any reason to contact for some time.
Social Security Scotland continued: “By highlighting this we hope more clients will realise they have supporting information to- hand, while also encouraging those who do need our help to provide contact details for the most relevant professional.”
It added that as a result of these measures, “we are already reaching decisions on more cases per week than ever before”.
Adult Disability Payment started to replace new claims for Personal Independence Payment (PIP) across Scotland at the end of August last year. Existing PIP claimants are being transferred to the devolved system in phases and due to be completed by the end of 2025.
Social Security Scotland said: "While it is essential processing times improve quickly, our commitment to treating all applicants with dignity, fairness and respect will continue to be our guiding principles. ”
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