The approach to social security in Scotland has made some important steps towards a fairer system than the approach of the UK Government. But change has been incremental, and the system is at risk of failing to live up the hopes that it would be radically fairer. We know that a well-designed, properly-funded social security system can tackle poverty and reduce economic, health and education inequalities. It is time for a radical reinvestment into Scotland’s social security system.
Scottish Green achievements in the last 5 years include:
There are currently 230,000 children living in poverty in Scotland, and this number is growing. This is unacceptable. The Scottish Greens are committed to meeting the legal 2030 target of reducing Relative Child Poverty to 10%, on the road to eradicating child poverty.
We will:
Everyone has the right to an adequate income to live on, regardless of individual circumstances. Since our foundation more than thirty years ago, the Scottish Greens have been consistent advocates of a Universal Basic Income.
The Scottish Greens will:
Too often, social security doesn’t get to those who need it because they are not aware of their entitlements, applications are too complex or because they are not supported to apply. The successful expansion of the Healthier, Wealthier Children approach shows how transformative good money advice can be, with some studies showing households benefiting by as much as £20 for each £1 invested.
The Scottish Greens will:
Over 500,000 Scots claim one of the disability benefits for which the Scottish Government is now responsible. The Scottish Greens will work to ensure these benefits support disabled people and carers fairly, allowing them to realise their human rights and participate equally in society.
We will: