Coronavirus (COVID-19): social care workforce payment – guidance for local authorities

Concerns over receiving payment

Scottish Government Ministers wish to recognise the extraordinary effort that health and social care staff have made during the pandemic.

Employers should provide their staff with the standard form of words in the communication templates section, which encourages staff to consider the important information provided for those in receipt of benefits and notify their employer if they have any concerns about receiving the payment.

Employers are encouraged to work with these staff to consider options, for example taking the payment in instalments over a period of time, in order to minimise impact on benefits. We may ask for total numbers and FTE numbers of staff who have notified you of concerns and discuss with you potential alternative approaches to the payment.

Evidence required

The form will ask you for all the information that is required to be submitted in order to receive payment. However, because this is a new process we may request some more information in order to validate the payment.

The Scottish Government and local authorities must make all reasonable effort to ensure that all eligible staff receive the payment as quickly as possible.

Data management

Each organisation is responsible for ensuring the data they collect and retain complies with the relevant General Data Protection Regulations (GDPR).

Resolution of issues

Any issues that arise during the application process should be reported to socialcare500@gov.scot for resolution.