Emma Roddick MSP expresses concerns over disability benefit appeals

Highlands and Islands MSP Emma Roddick has expressed concerns over the number of successful disability appeals following declined applications.

Roddick said:

“It worries me that three in five appeals for disability benefits were successful after initially being declined by the DWP, with Personal Independence Payment being the worst hit.

“Many disabled people do not have the means to appeal, and the process can be a terrifying and mentally taxing prospect. This leaves me wondering how many people entitled to disability benefits face poverty after being declined in the first instance.

“These figures show that DWP’s assessment process is woefully inadequate; public funds are being spent on appeals when the application should have been approved initially, and people are being left struggling without money they are entitled to – not to mention the stress and uncertainty the appeals process brings with it. The DWP’s focus is on denying benefits, rather than supporting those in need.

“The Scottish Government is committed to creating Social Security Scotland’s Adult Disability Payment with disabled people in mind, reforming the application system with input from disabled people and ensuring money goes to the people who need it most.

“I look forward to a Scotland that puts the needs of disabled people first.”