Social Security (Scotland) Act 2018, as amended by the Social Security and Childcare (Scotland) Act 2023 - Amendment to extend end-of-life benefits eligibility criteria from six months to twelve months for certain benefits under primary legislation

Welcomes the Minister to her position and inquires about alternative approaches considered during the evaluation process. Suggests that Scotland has adopted a terminal illness approach without time constraints, seeking clarification on why this was not pursued.

Acknowledges the Bill's presentation and inquires about consultations with local hospices such as St Giles Hospice, emphasising the importance of clinician input.

Welcomes changes proposed by the Government but suggests further measures are needed. Proposes a meeting to discuss his Terminal Illness Bill aimed at providing additional support without increasing public spending.

Inquires about discussions regarding the complexity of benefit assessment forms in Scotland, highlighting concerns raised by Motor Neurone Disease Scotland and seeking to minimise administrative burdens.

Welcomes the changes proposed by the Bill, which extend the definition of 'end of life' from six to twelve months. Raises concerns about delays in implementing these changes and the need for fast-tracking benefits access for terminally ill individuals. Requests reassurances that the Department will have sufficient staffing capacity to maintain current turnaround times. Expresses concern over the accuracy of determining an individual's remaining lifespan, particularly for conditions like Motor Neurone Disease (MND). Calls for clarity on how clinicians and families will be informed about these changes. Highlights the burden on carers who may face financial instability upon the passing of a loved one.

Proud of triggering changes to the bill, paying tribute to cross-party politicians and charities involved. Emphasised that the legislation is a result of collaboration between Government officials, stakeholders, and frontline healthcare professionals. Argued against the complexity of Scotland's approach, advocating for a simpler process consistent with UK-wide standards. Stressed the benefit of merging conversations regarding palliative care and financial support, reducing the period to access support from 16 weeks to less than five days.

Hendry argues that the Bill's measures will make a significant difference for terminally ill individuals and their families, providing fast-track support across all social security payments. He also criticises the previous six-month rule as inhumane and emphasises the need to remove bureaucratic barriers to ensure timely support for those at the end of their lives.

Tomlinson intervenes to highlight that the new system proposed by the UK Government allows for automatic identification and support of terminally ill individuals through GP involvement, arguing this is a better approach than the Scottish model.

Morden supports the Bill, which will end the six-month rule and improve access to benefits for terminally ill individuals. However, she raises concerns about ongoing issues such as the three-year award duration rule, forcing people with terminal illnesses to reapply for their benefits after just three years despite being extremely ill. She also highlights the cumulative impact of benefit caps over 12 years, leading to increased poverty among terminally ill people due to rising costs and inadequate benefits.

Mr. Patrick Grady supports the Bill, noting that it will remove uncertainty and provide quicker access to support for terminally ill individuals and their families. He highlighted that the changes will be particularly welcomed by working-age people who often face significant financial stress due to a terminal diagnosis. Mr. Grady cited research from Marie Curie indicating that one in four terminally ill people of working age spend the last year of their lives in poverty, emphasising the importance of timely and easier access to benefits for those affected.

Welcomes the Bill for its potential to relieve financial worries for people with terminal illnesses. Emphasises the need for swift processing of applications and flexible consideration of exceptional cases beyond the six-month rule.

Stresses the importance of making welfare systems better for those nearing end-of-life. Acknowledges extensive consultation with clinicians and praises the current fast-track approach in the DWP. Highlights the Bill's aim to provide consistent criteria across health and welfare services.

[INTERVENTION]: Emphasises the need for balance in engaging clinicians without overburdening them. Supports piggybacking on existing work to avoid creating unnecessary administrative tasks.

[INTERVENTION]: Praises DWP staff for their willingness to expedite benefit payments and highlights the importance of clear rules in facilitating this process.