Shirley-Anne Somerville

IN one tragic accident last week, five people – including a child – lost their lives while attempting to cross the Channel to reach the UK.

WE want everyone involved with Scotland’s social security system to be treated with respect and dignity. These principles are so important to us, we ensured they are in law and have worked to achieve this since we established Social Security Scotland in September 2018.

THE Scottish Child Payment will play a vital role in reducing child poverty This, the 10th and newest benefit to be provided through the Scottish Government’s social security agency starts tomorrow and will improve the lives of the youngest in our society and their families.

THE year may not have started as most of us would have hoped, with a new Covid-19 lockdown in place. This brings all kinds of challenges, including possibly the need for many people with a long-term health conditions to take additional steps to stay safe; additional caring responsibilities; and the balancing of childcare and home schooling with other pressures such as working at home.

THIS year has continued to bring the blows.

WE are committed to making sure people get all the financial support they are entitled to through our new social security system. Key to making this happen is making sure the service is easily accessible to clients from application to appealing a decision.

ALL of us love and care for our older relatives, just as they do us, and we benefit from their stories, wisdom and experiences.

YOUNG unemployed people in Scotland can, from tomorrow, apply to get £250 to help with the costs of starting a new job. I’ve heard from young people about the challenges of finding work – a job offer is one of many hurdles but not the last. Some are then faced with preparation costs they simply can’t afford.

THE important principle of our social security system being based on dignity and respect is enshrined in legislation passed by the Scottish Parliament earlier this year.