Press Story

IPPR Scotland has commented on today's announcement by the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, Liz Kendall, on reforms to disability benefits amounting to a £5 billion cut in welfare spending per year by the UK government. 

IPPR Scotland researcher Casey Smith said:

“The UK government is attempting to rewire support and incentives for those who can work to do so, but this leaves many unanswered questions, creating unwelcome uncertainty for vulnerable people in Scotland, many of whom depend on this support to live a good life in difficult circumstances.”

“The Scottish benefit equivalent to PIP is the Adult Disability Payment (ADP), uptake of which is higher. It has a different application, and its distinctive design emphasises dignity and respect. If today’s decision by the UK government filters through as a reduction in the Scottish budget, the Scottish government will face pressure either to follow suit and tighten eligibility, or make cuts elsewhere. The ball is in the Scottish government's court as to how it chooses to respond.

“Another unanswered question is how the Scottish government can respond to changes in Universal Credit, given that it is a reserved benefit? The proposal to replace Work Capability Assessments with the Personal Independence Payments application process raises questions for how this will work for people in Scotland. UK and Scottish Ministers must provide people in Scotland with urgent clarity”.

ENDS

AVAILABLE FOR INTERVIEW:

Casey Smith, researcher at IPPR Scotland, is available for interviews

CONTACT:

Rosie Lockwood, head of media and advocacy at IPPR Scotland: r.lockwood@ippr.org, 07585772633

NOTE TO EDITORS:

IPPR Scotland shapes public policy in pursuit of a fairer, greener, more prosperous Scotland