MSP for the Highlands & Islands Emma Roddick met today [Friday 18th November] with Social Security Scotland’s Local Delivery Team for the Highlands in Inverness to speak about the service they provide in the area.
Social Security Scotland’s Local Delivery service was launched in November 2021 and offers support to people face-to-face or over video or phone call in all 32 Scottish Local Authorities.
During the visit, Ms Roddick heard how the team support and advises people through the process of claiming benefits, from application to delivery.
Commenting on her visit, Roddick said:
“Having scrutinised recent progress on social security in the Parliament, I was so pleased to be able to meet the local delivery team for the Highlands. The work they do is incredibly important in supporting people through their claims process, something that can be very difficult for many.
“Social Security Scotland is taking a different approach to the UK’s punitive and degrading system. One that is compassionate and puts the claimants’ needs first.
“These local delivery teams are an integral part of that and a reflection of the kind of society we want to be here in Scotland. The delivery of ten different benefits, seven of which are unique to Scotland, simply would not be possible without these incredible people who are determined to deliver a fair and supportive welfare system for all.
“It’s really important that people know the help that is available, especially that their local delivery team will carry out home visits rather than make you travel to get to them and support you in getting the benefits you’re entitled to – the team really is here to help, not catch you out.
“I am grateful to the Highlands team for having me along and look forward to working with them in the future.”
ENDS
Notes
- Ms Roddick was recently appointed Deputy Convener of the Scottish Parliament’s Social Justice and Social Security Committee. Today’s visit was organised prior to that appointment.
Emma Roddick MSP 