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Statement: Social security changes risk values of Scotland’s system

  • Area of Work: Policy and Research
  • Type: News Item
  • Published: 18th March 2025
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Read a statement from our Chief Officer, Sara Redmond, on the recent social security announcement from the UK government.

Speaking after the UK Government’s statement on social security, Sara Redmond, Chief Officer at the Health and Social Care Alliance Scotland (the ALLIANCE), said they would cause confusion and risk the values of Scotland’s social security system. 

“We are concerned today’s announcement appears designed to remove income from thousands of people in Scotland who are unable to work due to an impairment or long term condition,” said Sara Redmond, Chief Officer, the Health and Social Care Alliance Scotland. 

“Far from being ‘trapped on benefits’, social security provides essential support towards meeting people’s right to an adequate standard of living and the right to independent living for disabled people. These proposals inappropriately conflate out-of-work support with support for the additional costs incurred by disabled people because of the barriers they face.  

“These changes also seem to ignore that some disability entitlements are devolved in Scotland, and will only cause more complexity, confusion and put Scotland’s system – founded on dignity, fairness and respect – at risk.  

“Progress towards reducing the disability employment gap needs to focus on removing barriers and promoting inclusive workplace initiatives, not making people destitute.” 

For media enquiries, contact christina.cran@alliance-scotland.org.uk

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