Independent Review of Adult Disability Payment - Chair’s remarks on the Scottish Government response

19th February 2026

Following the publication of a landmark independent review of Adult Disability Payment (ADP) which called for a simplified and more accessible application process, the Scottish Government has today formally responded to the recommendations contained within the report.

Some of the recommendations concerning improvements to processes, systems and training have been accepted and, in some cases, have already been actioned. There is an obvious commitment by the Scottish Government to continuous improvement with a focus on client experience and this is welcomed by the Chair.  However, some recommendations which fundamentally challenge current policies and processes, are yet to receive a definite commitment, which is a little disappointing.

While I was conducting the Review I heard consistently from disabled people that if we are to realise social security as an investment in people, it is important to ensure that the eligibility criteria fulfil this goal.  I appreciate that there are costs associated with a wholescale review of the eligibility criteria and although there is a commitment to undertake further analysis, there is nothing concrete in the Government’s response in this regard. 

Although I welcome the commitment shown by the Scottish Government there is still more that can be done to deliver a truly human-rights based approach to the awarding of disability payments.