Briefing for the Social Security Committee on the Scottish Welfare Fund

Shelter Scotland helps over half a million people every year struggling with bad housing or homelessness through our advice, support and legal services. And we campaign to make sure that, one day, no one will have to turn to us for help.

Many of Shelter Scotland’s clients have benefitted from the financial or equivalent assistance provided to them via the Scottish Welfare Fund. In the majority of cases, clients have been able to apply to the scheme and been awarded without unreasonable delay or difficulty. We are, however, aware of issues which have caused significant stress to some clients. These issues could be easily fixed or clarified by the Scottish Government and local authorities.