At a Glance
- Tasks: Support the development and implementation of disability benefits policies in Scotland.
- Company: Join a compassionate team shaping social security for disabled people.
- Benefits: Flexible working, inclusive culture, and valuable experience in public service.
- Other info: Hybrid role based in Glasgow or Edinburgh with opportunities for stakeholder engagement.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in people's lives while influencing future disability assistance.
- Qualifications: Current B1 employees with relevant skills and experience.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
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.
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:- Identifying the need for our unit to respond to public correspondence and the appropriate medium to do so.
- Draft responses and request contributions from relevant policy leads for disability benefit policy enquiries within the timeframe.
- Providing updates to teams and unit heads on emerging trends/concerns.
- Organise and provide updates to external stakeholder meetings, communicating as appropriate with members in advance, and collating papers as necessary.
- Respond to ad-hoc policy requests on behalf of the Disability Benefits Policy Unit, including the coordination of briefing packs for Ministers.
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.
Policy Support Officer (Disability Benefits) - B1 in Glasgow employer: Scottish Government
Contact Detail:
Scottish Government Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Policy Support Officer (Disability Benefits) - B1 in Glasgow
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees in the Policy Support Officer role. They can give us insider tips on what the team values and how to stand out during the informal discussions.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for that chat! Think about how your skills align with the person-centred approach mentioned in the job description. We want to show that we understand the importance of dignity, fairness, and respect in social security.
✨Tip Number 3
Stay updated on current trends in disability benefits. Being knowledgeable about recent changes and upcoming policies will help us impress during our discussions and show that we're genuinely interested in the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure our application gets noticed. Plus, it shows we’re committed to joining the team and contributing to the exciting work ahead.
We think you need these skills to ace Policy Support Officer (Disability Benefits) - B1 in Glasgow
Some tips for your application 🫡
Be Yourself: When writing your application, let your personality shine through! We want to see the real you and how you can contribute to our team. Don’t be afraid to share your unique experiences and perspectives.
Tailor Your Statement: Make sure to customise your statement to highlight how your skills and experience align with the role of Policy Support Officer. We’re looking for specific examples that demonstrate your understanding of disability benefits and policy work.
Keep It Concise: You’ve got a maximum of 500 words, so make every word count! Be clear and to the point, focusing on the most relevant information that showcases your suitability for the position.
Check Your Details: Before hitting submit, double-check your application for any typos or errors. A polished application shows us that you pay attention to detail and care about the opportunity. And remember, apply through our website!
How to prepare for a job interview at Scottish Government
✨Know Your Policies
Familiarise yourself with the key policies related to disability benefits in Scotland, especially those mentioned in the job description. Understanding the legislative framework, like the Scotland Act 2016 and the Social Security (Scotland) Act 2018, will show your commitment and readiness to contribute.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving skills and ability to handle public correspondence. Think of examples from your past experiences where you successfully managed similar tasks, and be ready to discuss how you would approach drafting responses or coordinating stakeholder meetings.
✨Showcase Your Flexibility
This role requires flexibility across policy areas. Be prepared to discuss how you've adapted to changing priorities in previous roles. Highlight any experience you have working in hybrid environments or collaborating with diverse teams, as this will resonate well with their inclusive culture.
✨Engage with the Team's Vision
Demonstrate your understanding of the person-centred approach to disability assistance. Share your thoughts on how you can contribute to creating a compassionate social security system. This will not only show your alignment with their values but also your enthusiasm for the role.