Child Disability Payment Amendment Regulations: draft island communities impact assessment

Implementation

71. A communications strategy and comprehensive guidance are being developed in advance of the launch of CDP and case transfer. This will ensure that that young people who are eligible and their families, the third sector, local authorities, the education sector and advice providers are aware of CDP, know how to apply and understand the eligibility criteria.

72. The communications strategy will be linked in with wider Scottish Government initiatives for improving outcomes for disabled people and for remote and island communities. This will ensure that CDP and case transfer is part of wider efforts to meet the needs of people living in island communities.

73. We recognise that awareness and understanding of DLAC is often limited and this is especially relevant in rural communities. We intend to provide clear information about eligibility and the new application process for CDP which will be more personalised and efficient than the current process. We will also provide timely communication in relation to the transfer of DLAC to CDP. Social Security Scotland’s Local Delivery function will provide support to applicants in rural areas. This will be an improvement on the current level of support offered through the current DWP system.

74. Clients of DLAC from rural communities have described a lack of information regarding the processing of their application and in the way the decision is communicated to them. We intend to provide much more transparent information about the progress of their case transferring or regarding new applications for CDP through each stage of the process. We will also provide more detail about why and how we reached a decision.

75. Recipients will not be required to reapply when their case transfers to CDP from DLAC. Their current award will be honoured with no break in payment to minimise disruption and ensure that people are paid the right amount at the right time.