Dear colleagues,
As those based in Scotland may be aware, the Scottish Government will soon be receiving responsibility for some social security policy areas. Ahead of these powers being devolved from the UK Parliament, an extensive consultation on the future of social security has been published with the closing date on 28th October. For people living with HIV, the biggest change will be the devolution of a range of disability benefits, including Disability Living Allowance, Attendance Allowance and Personal Independence Payments. A full breakdown can be found here:
https://www.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/397366/welfare_paper_v2.pdfHIV Scotland is currently consulting with people accessing these benefits and those providing advocacy support. We would be grateful if colleagues in Scotland could share two short online surveys:
Individuals accessing disability benefits:
https://www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/YXYR9WXProfessionals providing support:
https://www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/YFBYSMNYour experiences and proposals on how to ensure the new system is rooted in dignity and respect will help shape our consultation response.
If you have any questions or require further information, do get in contact.
Kind regards,
Liam Beattie
Policy and Political Officer, HIV Scotland
Liam.Beattie@hivscotland.com 
UKCAB 