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 18 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, Scottish Adult Disability Living Allowance was launched in March 2025 to replace Disability Living Allowance, and Pension Age Disability Payment was launched in April 2025 to replace Attendance Allowance.
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. Our unit must also be ready to respond to any implications for devolved disability benefits arising from changes to the social security system by the UK Government.
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 join as a Policy Officer within the Disability Benefits Policy Unit. They will support a Policy Manager, particularly in responding reactively to any issues raised regarding the live-running of our disability benefits. The Policy Officer will provide Ministerial support and work closely with internal and external stakeholders.
Our Unit highly values flexible working, creating a supportive environment, development opportunities, and an inclusive culture. Applications are welcome from people based in Glasgow or Edinburgh and the post holder 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 responsibilities below are those we intend the role to cover initially but the post holder will need to work flexibly, working on other disability benefit priorities as required.
Responsibilities
Responsibilities
- Contributing to the provision of high-quality policy analysis and Ministerial advice relating to disability benefits.
- Policy support to help operational practice across new applications and award reviews for disability benefits, for example through case queries or to inform continuous improvement of live running.
- Working collaboratively with colleagues in Social Security Scotland and across the wider business area to ensure any advice we give is fully informed by delivery implications and the wider social security context.
- Maintaining strong relationships with relevant internal and external stakeholders.
- Providing high quality support to Ministers in contributing to advice on specific issues and support in relation to relevant parliamentary business, Ministerial correspondence, etc.
Qualifications
Working pattern
This role is a permanent level transfer position.
How to Apply
Applications for this position will only be accepted from substantive B2 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).
Selection Process
All candidates will be invited to an informal discussion with the Hiring Manager.
Informal discussion dates tbc.
Further Information
If you have specific questions about the role, please contact SSD_WFP@gov.scot
Read our Candidate Guide for further information on our recruitment and application processes.
Policy Officer - Disability Benefits - B2 in Glasgow employer: Scottish Government
The Scottish Government offers a dynamic and supportive work environment, where you can make a significant impact on customer service and safeguarding across Scotland. With a strong focus on employee development and innovation, you will have access to numerous growth opportunities while working alongside a dedicated team committed to excellence in public service. Join us in shaping a high-performing organisation that values collaboration and strives for transformative results.
