New social security system will be delivered "face-to-face" in council link-up

A deal has been reached which will help see Scotland's new social security system delivered face-to-face around the country.

The Scottish Government and local authority body Cosla have agreed to link up access to the services in council buildings.

Around 400 staff - on top of 1,500 agency workers to be based in Dundee and Glasgow - will be employed nationwide as part of the move.

The agreement addresses concerns the service would only be run out of the two cities, with users elsewhere having to use the system remotely.

It comes ahead of the first Scottish benefits to be delivered next year - Carers Allowance Supplement, followed by Best Start Grant, and Funeral Expenses Assistance.

Social Security Minister Jeane Freeman said: “We are determined to create a social security system for Scotland that is fair and treats people with respect, and part of that means making sure people can use services as close to home as possible.

“By working with colleagues in Cosla, local authorities and other partners such as health, we are making sure people can use our new social security system in existing premises in communities around the country.

“We are also working with a significant number of organisations and partners to identify other opportunities for locating agency staff with existing services to complement the support that's already out there, so that people can get the help they need as close to home as possible.”

Scotland received new powers over benefits within devolved areas in 2016.

It has also taken control of credits such as Disability Living Allowance, Winter Fuel Payments and Carer's Allowance.

The new benefits followed a consultation last year.

It also hopes to build on links between accessing social security and local council services.

There is also potential for the new system to be accessed through other government partners.

Cosla president Alison Evison said: “The devolution of elements of social security to Scotland provides a significant opportunity to ensure services to claim essential support are easily accessible.

“This agreement lays down the principles around planning these services - Scottish and local government will work together to ensure face-to-face support is embedded in communities across Scotland in ways which complement existing services and support.

“Local government, along with our community planning partners, understands what is needed in the communities we serve across Scotland - it is right that this knowledge and expertise contributes to how things are developed so those who need assistance claiming support can access it."