In the ongoing public discourse surrounding social security, there’s a troubling trend towards dehumanising those who rely on support.  We hear terms like “benefit scroungers” or debates about the “cost of welfare,” which strip away the fundamental truth: social security is about human rights.  It’s about ensuring everyone has the ability to live with dignity, to participate in society, and to have their basic needs met, particularly when facing the additional challenges of disability.

There’s not a person we shouldn’t be ensuring can eat or feed their children; and that’s what social security often comes down to.

As an MSP for the Highlands and Islands, and as a disabled person myself, I know intimately the vital role that social security plays in countless lives.  These payments are not handouts; they are often the difference between independence and isolation, between managing a condition to the point where you can play an active role in your community and succumbing to its worst impacts.  They cover essential costs like accessible transport, specialist equipment, or simply the increased energy bills that come with managing certain health conditions.

The recent discussions emanating from Westminster, hinting at substantial cuts to disability benefits, are deeply alarming.  The narrative often pushed is one of reducing “the welfare bill” by forcing people “back to work.”  This fundamentally misunderstands the purpose of disability benefits and demonises those who receive them.  Many disabled people are in work, or want to work, but face significant barriers and additional costs.  Cutting their lifeline will not magically create accessible jobs or reduce the cost of living; it will only plunge more people into poverty and despair.  The SNP understands that.

In Scotland, we are committed to a different path.  Through Social Security Scotland, we are building a system rooted in the principle of dignity, fairness, and respect.  This means moving away from the hostile environment of the DWP, with its punitive assessments and endless appeals, towards one that recognises the expertise of lived experience and trusts individuals to know their own needs.  Our Adult Disability Payment is a testament to this, providing a far more compassionate and understanding process.

We must challenge the dangerous rhetoric that seeks to divide us and stigmatise disabled people. Instead of focusing on “cuts,” we should be discussing how to make our society truly inclusive.  This includes investing in accessible infrastructure, promoting inclusive employment practices, and ensuring that healthcare and social care services are robust and responsive to need.

For communities like Orkney, a strong social security system is a bedrock of resilience.  It protects our most vulnerable, supports local families, and ensures that everyone has the chance to thrive.  Let us remember that upholding social security is not just an act of compassion; it is an investment in a fairer, stronger society for all.  We must continue to champion the human rights of disabled people and ensure that their voices are at the heart of every decision that impacts their lives.

This is a regular column by SNP MSP Emma Roddick. All Highlands and Islands MSPs have been offered the same space in The Orkney News to share their personal views.