Scotland’s new public service to make first social security payments.

SNP MSP Colin Beattie has welcomed the news that carers in Midlothian will receive the first payments of the new Carer’s Allowance Supplement from mid-September, back-dated to April.  

This new benefit will be paid twice a year by Social Security Scotland, the first major new public service to be created since devolution. 

Eligible carers will get a supplementary payment of £221, equivalent of an extra £8.50 per week, an increase of 13% on Carer’s Allowance from the Department of Work and Pensions.

The Carer’s Allowance Supplement is worth more than £30 million a year and will benefit 1193 in Midlothian. 
Carers will receive letters from Social Security Scotland from week beginning 10 September so that they know in advance to expect a payment.

SNP MSP Colin Beattie, Midlothian North and Musselburgh said:  

“This roll out of the Carer’s Allowance Supplement marks the beginning of a bright new chapter in Scottish public service.  
“The SNP is committed to delivering a fairer system for social security:  one that affords carers the dignity and respect they are due as a result of their selfless dedication.

“We appreciate the contribution carers make to our society and we have always advocated that Carer’s Allowance should be the same rate as Jobseeker’s Allowance.  

“It follows that the new powers over social security mean that we can make this a reality and put more money into the pockets of carers as a thank you for their tireless efforts.”

​Colin Beattie MSP for Midlothian North and Musselburgh has announced that he will be holding a Christmas Card Competition again this year. The competition will be open to all primary school children from the Midlothian North and Musselburgh constituency.
 
Commenting, Mr. Beattie said, “This is the 2nd year I have ran the Christmas Card Competition and I feel that it is important for the children in my constituency to be part of something fun. The winning design will be the official card I send out to local organisations, businesses and politicians here in Midlothian and throughout Scotland.
 
“All of the primary schools in the constituency will be receiving full details of the competition. Including rules and closing date. There will be a prize for the winner and the runner up in the competition.
 
“I look forward to seeing many of the fantastic designs created by the young people of Midlothian North and Musselburgh.”