An independent review of Adult Disability Payment has urged the Scottish Government to make the system simpler, more accessible and firmly rooted in human rights.
The review, led by charity leader Edel Harris OBE, found that while the payment is kinder and more compassionate than the UK benefit it replaced, many disabled people still face unnecessary barriers and anxiety when applying for support.
Adult Disability Payment was designed to help with the extra costs of living with a disability or long‑term health condition.
The review welcomed positive changes, including the removal of DWP‑style assessments and the supportive approach taken by Social Security Scotland staff, but warned that more must be done to deliver a system that is easy to navigate and genuinely empowering.
“Adult Disability Payment has been described by many as a step change, kinder in tone and more dignified in approach,” said Ms Harris.
“But too often, disabled people still find the system difficult to navigate, time‑consuming and anxiety‑inducing.”
She said eligibility criteria must better reflect the reality of people’s daily lives, particularly for those with fluctuating conditions or mental health challenges.
“This review highlights the importance of a system that is not only compassionate, but practical and accessible,” she added.
“The recommendations are based on real experiences and a shared commitment to making Adult Disability Payment work better for everyone who needs it.”
The review gathered evidence from public consultations, written submissions, events and extensive engagement with disabled people, advocacy groups and social security staff.
More than 50 recommendations have been made.
They include simplifying application forms, embedding trauma‑informed and stigma‑free practices, clearer communication for clients and staff, and fairer decision‑making based on real‑life experience rather than checklists of activities.
Other proposals call for sustainable funding for welfare advice services, automatic entitlement in some circumstances and more inclusive ways of communicating with clients.
During the review, Edel Harris visited Inspire by Community Integrated Care, an Aberdeen‑based charity supporting adults with learning disabilities and additional needs, to see first‑hand how financial support can transform lives.
Sara Murphy, Managing Director for Scotland at Community Integrated Care, said the payment can make a visible difference in helping people build confidence, develop skills and live more independently.
“We welcome the review’s call for a system that truly listens to disabled people and reflects their real‑life experiences,” she said.
“We hope it leads to meaningful change that makes accessing support fairer, simpler and more empowering for those who need it.”
The Scottish Government will now consider the recommendations as part of its commitment to creating a social security system founded on dignity, fairness and respect.
