Na h-Eileanan an Iar SNP MP Angus MacNeil has welcomed the start of Scotland’s new Adult Disability Payment which is being piloted in three areas including the Western Isles.
The scheme is open to applications from those aged between 16 and state pension age who are disabled, have a long-term health condition, or have a terminal illness.
This is the twelfth benefit to be introduced by the Scottish Government, with seven of these benefits being brand new forms of support that are not available elsewhere in the UK.
Mr MacNeil said:
“The introduction of this benefit which will replace the system currently delivered by the UK Government’s Department for Work and Pensions (DWP).
“We know that applying for disability benefits through the DWP has often been a stressful experience.
“I hope that this new system will make the process much more straightforward and will remove some of the degrading examinations which were carried out previously, such as asking a person to ‘touch their toes’.
“Adult Disability Payment is there to support people to live well and provide security at the most difficult of times.
“I would encourage those who think they could be eligible to check and apply.”
Adult Disability Payment will be administered through Social Security Scotland and will replace Personal Independence Payment, which is currently delivered by the Department for Work and Pensions.
People with ongoing awards of Personal Independence Payment and Disability Living Allowance do not need to make an application for Adult Disability Payment.
Their awards will transfer to the Scottish social security system automatically from this summer.
For details of eligibility and how to apply please click here.
