Child Disability Payment Amendment Regulations: draft island communities impact assessment

Culture

61. Stakeholders have identified potential cultural barriers to applying for CDP. This is because of the close-knit nature of island communities. Although there is plenty of research that evidences the positive impact of the support provided by close-knit communities, certain barriers may also be present.

62. It is possible that stigma attached to identifying as disabled could act as a barrier to young people applying to CDP. The need for privacy and dignity is emphasised by disabled children and young people in remote and island communities.

63. We were told that there is concern that the introduction of a new benefit may result in the disclosure of someone’s disability or caring status. It was pointed out to us that ‘everyone knows each other’ and disabled people may not want their communities to know about or discuss the details of their condition or disability. Dignity, fairness and respect underpins how Social Security Scotland will deliver CDP including protecting the privacy of clients.

64. Our priority is to ensure that the cases of children currently in receipt of DLAC are transferred to Scotland safely and securely. Individuals will not be required to reapply when their case transfers. Their current award will be honoured with no break in payment so that there is no disruption caused by the introduction of CDP.

65. The communication and implementation of CDP and the commencement of case transfer will take into account the specific pressures of individuals living in remote and island communities and the sensitive nature of disclosing receipt of disability benefits and associated caring responsibilities for families and carers.