First Minister’s Questions in the Scottish Parliament

First Minister’s Questions in the Scottish Parliament..Thursday, 19th September 2019..Pictured: Shona Robinson..HOLYROOD MARKS FIRST ANNIVERSARY OF SOCIAL SECURITY SCOTLAND..“FAIRNESS, DIGNITY AND RESPECT” NOW AT HEART OF SYSTEM..The Scottish Parliament celebrated the first anniversary of Social Security Scotland, in a debate led by SNP MSP Shona Robison...The agency made its first payments in September 2018, delivering the Carer’s Allowance Supplement – which has helped around 77,500 people - and the Best Start Grant - which has supported almost 10,000 low-income families...Social Security Scotland will also deliver a new £10 Scottish Child Payment - described as a “game changer” by anti-poverty campaigners and estimated to lift 30,000 children out of poverty – ahead of schedule in 2020...Speaking in the debate, Shona Robison MSP said:..“It was a proud moment for me when this parliament passed the Social Security (Scotland) Bill...“It was a proud moment for all of us who want to see a fairer, more respectful and dignified Scotland...“The first year has been a success – bringing over 700 jobs to my constituency in Dundee, and delivering face to face support to those who need it...“Let’s not forget the words of the UN’s Special Rapporteur on extreme poverty and human rights who said that UK Government compassion for those who are suffering has been replaced by a punitive, mean-spirited, and often callous approach to welfare...“And to that end, I echo Social Security Secretary Shirley-Anne Somerville when she calls for all social security to be devolved to Scotland to create a system with the people of Scotland for the people of Scotland.’’..“The UN letter declares that the poverty is a political choice. Let’s choose to end poverty.”..ENDS..Notes:..Members' Business — S5M-18758 Shona Robison: Social Security Scotland First Anniversary..That the Parliament notes that it has been one year since Social Security Scotland was established, employing around 400 people with its headquarters in Dundee; commends the aim of the new agency to ensure that the service is based on dignity and respect; is encouraged by research published in June 2019, which it understands showed high satisfaction levels with the service provided by Social Security Scotland; considers that thousands of people are already benefiting from the increased financial support that has been delivered, including the Carer’s Allowance Supplement and the three elements of the Best Start Grant; believes that, by removing barriers to application and promoting the take-up of benefits, more low-income households have received much-needed support; welcomes that nearly £13 million has already been paid out through Best Start Grants, and welcomes that the agency will also deliver the new Scottish Child Payment, which it understands has been described as a “game-changer” by antipoverty campaigners....Alex Todd | Edinburgh Elite media