Scottish Child Payment: Business and Regulatory Impact Assessment

The Business and Regulatory Impact Assessment (BRIA) considers the impact of the Scottish Child Payment on businesses, including the third sector.


Digital Impact Test

Does the measure take account of changing digital technologies and markets? We have committed to a multi-channel approach for SCP as with the other devolved benefits with applications taken online, over the phone or on a paper form. This offers options for those with digital access and for those who find it more challenging.
Will the measure be applicable in a digital / online context? SCP will be available in a digital / online context, including an online application channel. Guidance material advising on who may or may not be eligible will also be available online. Further information on the policy is already available on the Scottish Government website. This will allow potential applicants to access information on the benefit quickly and easily. We will also ensure information is available in other formats for people who may find it difficult to access information online.
Is there a possibility the measure could be circumvented by digital / online transactions? We recognise the value of automating payments, and considered whether a data feed from DWP to SG confirming client eligibility digitally and payments being automatically was feasible. However, automation is complex, time-consuming, and technically challenging – and simply isn't possible to implement for the under 6s payment if we want to get money into families' pockets as quickly as possible. We are committed to exploring automated payments after the full rollout of the under 16s payment.
Alternatively, will the measure only be applicable in a digital context and therefore may have an adverse impact on traditional or offline businesses? No, the service will be available by telephone, paper form and face to face.
If the measure can be applied in an offline and online environment will this have any adverse impact on incumbent operators? As a new policy there is no incumbent operator for there to be an adverse effect upon.

Contact

Email: kai.stuart@gov.scot

Back to top