Scottish Government Response to the Independent Review of Adult Disability Payment Final Report

Ministerial foreword

I am deeply committed to building a social security system that protects, empowers and supports the people of Scotland, rooted in dignity, fairness and respect. It is a safety net we should all value, because at some point in our lives, any one of us may need to rely on it.

In July 2025, the Independent Review of Adult Disability Payment (ADP) was published, assessing progress and setting out recommendations for improvement. I am pleased to present our response. Working closely with Social Security Scotland, we have developed a clear pathway forward, guided by the voices of disabled people and stakeholders throughout the review. Lived experience remains at the heart of our approach.

This review follows the transition from the Personal Independence Payment process to one designed and delivered by the Scottish Government, an approach that is deliberately designed with compassion to ensure as many disabled people as possible are getting the help they need and are entitled to. The review highlights positive changes already made and confirms that we are building on a strong foundation. While there is more to do, I am glad that we have already been able to make improvements in disabled people’s lives. Our reforms are more than simple administrative changes; they are designed to entirely reshape delivery and the experiences of disabled people in Scotland.

I want to express my sincere gratitude to Ms Edel Harris for her leadership and to everyone who contributed their experiences. Your courage in sharing lived experience is invaluable in shaping a human rights-based benefits system, ensuring the system is designed not only for you, but with you.

Publishing this response is only the beginning. Delivery of further change will require joint efforts with Social Security Scotland, and together we have set out short- and long-term actions to build a benefits system that we can all be proud of. This work is central to our ambition for a fairer, more equal Scotland, where social security is a cornerstone of social justice. We will remain accountable to the people we serve, because trust and transparency are fundamental to achieving that vision. Together, we will ensure that Scotland sets a world leading standard for social justice.

Shirley-Anne Somerville, Cabinet Secretary for Social Justice