This opportunity is only open to applicants who are currently 'Priority Movers'. Applications from individuals not currently on the Priority Mover list will be rejected and not considered
Following the Smith Commission, the Scotland Act 2016 and the Social Security (Scotland) Act 2018 put in place an overarching legislative framework for the administration of social security in Scotland. The Scottish Government has already delivered 15 new payments, including four new forms of assistance for disabled people. Over the last few years, Social Security Policy Division has helped to take forward work to build a compassionate social security system for Scotland.
We have taken a safe and secure approach to the transition of people’s payments from DWP to Social Security Scotland. Child Disability Payment was launched in 2021 to replace Disability Living Allowance for children, Adult Disability Payment was launched in August 2022 to replace Personal Independence Payment and Pension Age Disability Payment was launched nationally in April 2025 to replace Attendance Allowance.
The work of the division will extend over the coming years to develop and support the implementation of further social security policy for disabled people. As we look beyond a safe and secure transition of people’s payments, we have an excellent opportunity to influence the future of disability assistance in Scotland.
This is an exciting time to join this supportive and motivated team, delivering Ministerial ambitions of a different approach to disability benefits by using a person-centred approach. Our vision for disability assistance is that everyone who accesses the social security system is treated with dignity, fairness and respect.
The post holder will be a policy officer within the Disability Benefits Policy Unit. The Disability Benefits Policy Unit provides Scottish Ministers with advice on policy options for delivering social security assistance to disabled people. The post holder will play a key role in formulating advice on the development and implementation of these policies, and in shaping the legislation and guidance required to deliver them.
As well as doing great work and shaping a new public service, we are creating a place that is great to work in. We offer flexible working, support for colleagues, the opportunity to obtain relevant experience, and an inclusive culture where your opinion is valued. You can choose whether to be based in offices in Glasgow or Edinburgh and may also spend time in our Agency HQ in Dundee, the Scottish Parliament, meeting with stakeholders in other parts of Scotland and occasionally meeting with DWP staff in England. The successful applicant will be flexible and work across policy areas to meet priority demands.
Responsibilities
Working pattern
This role is a permanent level transfer position. This role is hybrid within current SG Hybrid Working Policies, the role can be based in either Glasgow or Edinburgh.
How to Apply
Applications for this position will only be accepted from substantive B1 employees.
Please submit a statement outlining your suitability for the role, relevant skills and experience, and what you would bring to the team (maximum 500 words).
Vacancy closes at 12:00pm on Thursday the 9th April.
Selection Process
All applications will be invited to an informal discussion with the hiring manager.
Informal discussions are to be confirmed.
Further Information
If you have specific questions about the role, please contact socialsecurityprogramme_resourcing@gov.scot.
Read our Candidate Guide for further information on our recruitment and application processes.
The devolved government for Scotland is responsible for matters that are devolved from Westminster. Areas of responsibility include the economy, health, education, justice, rural affairs, environment, and transport.
