Social Security Scotland hires 2000 staff as it takes over from DWP

 In a significant boost the economies of Dundee and Glasgow, more than 2,000 jobs will be created with Social Security Scotland over the next 12 months.

Recruitment will start in October for staff to support the delivery of benefits due to be introduced next year, including the Adult Disability Payment – the Scottish Government’s replacement for the Personal Independence Payment.

The majority of the new roles will be based in Social Security Scotland’s Dundee head office and Glasgow, to take calls from clients and process applications for Scottish benefits.

The remainder will be based across the country to provide face-to-face advice for people applying in the way that would suit them best, whether that is online, by phone, by post or in person.

"When we have introduced all our new benefits and moved clients from the DWP to Social Security Scotland, our new social security service will employ more than 3,500 people," said Nicola Sturgeon, the First Minister. "This will provide secure, long-term employment in Dundee, Glasgow and across the country and deliver a positive economic impact of £280 million for our economy."

Scottish claimants who currently receive UK Government disability benefits, delivered by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP), will be transferred to the new devolved system in stages after the new benefits are introduced. Full transfer of benefits from the DWP is expected to be completed by 2025.

"Social Security Scotland opened its doors in September 2018, and we are already delivering 11 benefits – seven of which are brand new. We know that our clients value our service as we have a 90% satisfaction rating," said Social Security Scotland’s Chief Executive David Wallace. "As we welcome more than 2,000 additional staff to deliver new benefits and a high-quality service, we are committed to increasing diversity in the organisation so we reflect the clients we are here to serve and their lived experience."

When planned benefits are fully rolled out, Social Security Scotland is expected to make payments to 1.8 million children and adults – around one in three people in Scotland. This will include benefits for families on low incomes, people who need help paying for a funeral, disabled people, carers, young people entering the workplace and to help people heat their homes.