Chamber and committees

The turnover and retention rates for Social Security Scotland in the period 1 September to 30 November 2018 are shown in the following table.

The Scottish Government continually assesses the effectiveness of the SWF through management information of applications, awards and expenditure. We work closely with local authorities, the Scottish Public Services Ombudsman and third sector organisations, as well as seeking views of users of the SWF through experience panels and social media platforms. In this way we can ensure that the most vulnerable people in our society receive help when they need it. The Scottish Government has continued to maintain funding for the SWF at  £38 million per year.

There are no plans for a separate review at this stage.

We have sought to develop accessible application processes for the Best Start Grant Pregnancy and Baby Payment, to meet the needs of different groups. Applicants have a choice of application routes and can apply on the phone, online (including on a mobile phone) and on a paper form.

The following tables reflect actual and forecast payments to DWP:

Payments for Implementation costs (actual and indicative) to DWP from Social Security Directorate

We are actively working with health boards to ensure that promotion of the Best Start Grant Pregnancy and Baby Payment is embedded in their maternity and health visiting pathways and in relevant publications such as "Ready Steady Baby".

Health boards are best placed to decide the approach to promotion in their individual areas. We have not placed an explicit requirement for them to provide applications to new mothers in hospital but some may choose to do so.

The Best Start Grant’s case management systems have been built to automate processes where possible. We are minimising both manual processing and the evidence that a client is required to provide with electronic checks being made where appropriate.

For example, with evidence gathering, there are automatic checks on postcode, bank details and pregnancy details.

For decision making, automatic rules have been built into the system where possible. There are manual checks in place for quality assurance.

The SG’s consultation on the Fraud Code of Practice has recently closed and is now being analysed. No decisions have been taken on the practical implementation of this and the systems that may be used.

We have no specific definition of a delivery partner, however, we will be engaging with Police Scotland through the local community planning partnerships and will work with them and all other relevant public and third sector organisations to ensure awareness of Social Security Scotland’s services. Additionally, in Social Security Scotland’s commitment to the safety of clients, the public and staff, which is reflected in our public protection policies, we will engage with Police Scotland where it is deemed appropriate.

The Secretary of State for Work and Pensions replied that “I understand my officials are taking these matters forward and I have asked them to liaise with yours as appropriate.” No further information was provided in the letter regarding the numbers of people overpaid.

Under the Consolidated Budgeting Rules that the Scottish Government is required to follow there is no net impact on the Scottish Budget as a result of the transfer of Carer’s Allowance debt.