A LANDMARK review into the Adult Disability Payment (ADP) has urged the Scottish Government to better support disabled people by simplifying and making the application process more accessible.
The independent review highlighted that while the ADP is significantly more compassionate than the UK benefit it replaced, some people still face barriers, complexity and distress when applying for it.
The review noted that although the ending of the DWP-style assessments and recognises the compassionate approach of Social Security Scotland staff, it concluded that there is still more that can be done to deliver a truly human-rights-based approach.
The review made more than 50 recommendations, including that eligibility for ADP should be based on the real-life experience of clients and not just on a list of activities, along with recommending that the application process should be made easier for those with fluctuating conditions, mental health problems, and also take into consideration the environment in which the person lives.
The report also called for sustainable funding for welfare advice services, more inclusive communication, and automatic entitlement in some circumstances.
Edel Harris, chair of the Adult Disability Payment Review and experienced charity leader, said the review recommendations are based on real experiences and a shared commitment to make ADP work better for everyone who needs it.
She said: “Adult Disability Payment has been described by many as a step change - kinder in tone and more dignified in approach. But too often, disabled people still find the system difficult to navigate, time-consuming, and anxiety-inducing.
“I heard consistently that if we are to realise social security as an investment in people, it is important to ensure that the eligibility criteria fulfil this goal.
“This review highlights the importance of a system that is not only compassionate, but practical and accessible.”
The review engaged extensively with disabled people and the organisations that support them.
It drew on evidence from a public consultation, written submissions, in-person and online events, and the lived experience of an advisory group made up of third sector representatives, disabled people and people with long-term health conditions.
Cabinet Secretary for Social Justice Shirley-Anne Somerville said she felt “very encouraged” to read the feedback from disabled people about their positive interactions with Social Security Scotland.
Somerville added that the Scottish Government’s approach to providing social security is a compassionate one, based on dignity, fairness and respect.
She said: “While the UK Government seeks to make cuts to the vital support disabled people rely on, I want to make clear that we will not cut Adult Disability Payment.
“Instead, we will work to protect and enhance Scotland’s social security system, improving on what we have achieved so far. I very much appreciate the comprehensive recommendations this report provides for how we can improve Adult Disability Payment.
Somerville thanked Harris for her 18-months' worth of work conducting the review as she added: “The Scottish Government will now carefully consider all of the recommendations and provide its initial response by January 2026.”
Harris visited Inspire by Community Integrated Care, an Aberdeen-based charity supporting adults with learning disabilities and additional support needs.
The visit offered an insight into the role of social security in promoting independence, inclusion, and dignity.
Community Integrated Care’s managing director for Scotland, Sara Murphy, welcomed the review as said: “As a care provider, we see every day how inclusive, person-centred support enables people to build confidence, develop skills, and live more independently.
“We welcome the review’s call for a system that truly listens to disabled people and reflects their real-life experiences. We hope it leads to meaningful change that makes accessing support fairer, simpler, and more empowering for those who need it.”
