A wide range of views is being sought on how the new Employment Injury Assistance should be delivered.

The Scottish Government is replacing the UK Government’s Industrial Injuries Scheme and it is intended that this replacement benefit will better meet the needs of those affected.

The current UK DWP scheme provides financial support to those who have become disabled or have developed a long-term health condition as a result of their employment.

The new benefit will be called Employment Injury Assistance to be delivered by Social Security Scotland.

There are 24,000 people in Scotland who currently receive this support, with payments totalling over £80 million per year.

Click on this link to find out more and to take part in the consultation: Consultation on next steps on delivery of Employment Injury Assistance

The consultation closes on 24th June 2024.

Commenting, Cabinet Secretary for Social Justice in the Scottish Government Shirley-Anne Somerville said:

“The Industrial Injuries Scheme was introduced in 1948 and it does not account for many of the injuries and diseases common in the modern workforce.

“We know that the outdated eligibility criteria for the Industrial Injuries Scheme does not account for the injuries and illnesses that are most likely to affect people today. This is especially true for women, young people, and people from an ethnic minority group.

“We want to hear a broad range of views on the approach we should take to delivering Employment Injury Assistance, and I would encourage individuals and stakeholders to respond to our consultation.”