The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has announced a significant change for benefit claimants living in Scotland. The UK government department has confirmed it will cease payments for two specific benefits, with responsibility transferring fully to the Scottish system.
Which Benefits Are Affected?
The DWP has stated that all ongoing cases for Disability Living Allowance (DLA) and Attendance Allowance (AA) for pensioners resident in Scotland have now been handed over. This move is a direct result of the powers devolved to the Scottish Parliament under the Scotland Act 2016.
"These cases are now with Social Security Scotland who will pay the equivalent Scottish benefit," a DWP spokesperson explained. For claimants, this means DLA is replaced by Scottish Adult Disability Living Allowance, while AA is replaced by the Pension Age Disability Payment.
Critical Action for Moving Claimants
The DWP has issued an urgent warning to a specific group of people. The only DLA and AA cases now transferring to Social Security Scotland are those where the claimant moves from England or Wales to Scotland.
"Customers who move from England or Wales to Scotland must report their change of address to DWP as soon as possible," the department stressed. This immediate notification is crucial to ensure payments continue seamlessly under the new administering agency.
A New Approach to Social Security in Scotland
This transfer is part of a broader shift in welfare powers from Westminster to Holyrood. The devolved powers now allow the Scottish Government control over a significant part of the welfare system, including the ability to create its own provisions.
Social Security Scotland, the agency now responsible, has outlined a distinct philosophy. "We regard social security as a human right and we are committed to ensuring that those who are entitled to disability assistance are able to access it whilst being treated with dignity, fairness and respect," it stated.
The agency emphasises that its approach has been shaped by consulting individuals with direct experience of the DWP system and organisations representing disabled people. Its overriding principle is to build a system that works for the people of Scotland by involving those who will use it.
In addition to disability benefits, the devolved powers also cover the Regulated Social Fund. This means future decisions on Winter Fuel Payments, Cold Weather Payments, Sure Start Maternity Grants and Funeral Payments for Scottish residents will be made by the Scottish Parliament.
