Scottish Government launches consultation over how disability benefit supports mobility needs
The Scottish Government is seeking the views of Scots about how disability benefit is supporting their mobility needs.
The consultation on eligibility for the Adult Disability Payment mobility element will gather evidence to feed into a wider independent review. Ministers committed to this review to ensure the payment meets people’s needs now and in the future.
The mobility element, one of two components to the payment, supports people who have difficulties moving around or planning and following journeys.
Social Security Minister Ben Macpherson said: “Adult Disability Payment was developed in close co-operation with disabled people as part of our commitment to ensure Scotland’s social security system is delivered with dignity, fairness and respect.
“We want to hear a broad range of views on the eligibility criteria for the mobility element of Adult Disability Payment, particularly from people who are in receipt of disability benefits.
“We have already improved the application process for disability payments, while maintaining our commitment to safely and securely transferring people’s payments from the UK Government. We’d like to know about people’s experiences of this improved system.
“To anyone who receives Adult Disability Payment, or has views on how it is delivered, I would encourage you to respond to our consultation.”
Adult Disability Payment, delivered by Social Security Scotland, was launched in August 2022 to replace the UK Government’s Personal Independence Payment. It provides financial support to people aged between 16 and state pension age who are disabled, have a long-term health condition or a terminal illness.
There are two parts: the mobility element, and a daily living element for people who experience difficulties with day-to-day activities such as preparing a meal or bathing.
The consultation, focusing on the mobility element, will run for 12 weeks and will close on 25 April.
