It is proposed that there will be no time limit set for those making claims to Scotland’s Social Security agency who are terminally ill.

Currently under the UK there is a time limit of 6 months.

Jeane Freeman, Social Security Minister in the Scottish Government said:

“Working through the best approach to terminal illness for our new social security system in Scotland has been the most challenging aspect of this legislation. It is both sensitive and difficult because a diagnosis of terminal illness brings with it a significant impact on the individual and their family and implications for the care and management of their condition.

“Medical practitioners who make these decisions are aware of these facts and I am very conscious of the vital role that they will play in implementing this important change. And I am grateful to the medical professionals for providing their views.

“I am also grateful to everyone else involved for their very considered approach to this complex issue, and for continuing to discuss this with me. We are all determined to get this right for both the people of Scotland and our medical professionals. And, I believe that we have arrived at the right solution to ensure that people who are already in extremely difficult circumstances are able to access the maximum level of  financial support they are entitled to – quickly, with dignity, and with no assessment process involved. “

You can read about Scotland’s New Social Security System here: Scotland’s Social Security System Takes Shape