Amended Motion 103
Access to Work
“That this Congress notes that Access to Work (AtW) is administered and funded via the DWP, providing funded support for disabled people at work, with continuity of employment, relieving the burden on social security benefits.
“Since 2023, cuts have been made to available support, including the reduction in support worker hours, BSL interpreters, and support for mental health. Disabled workers have reported delays of up to 254 days, cuts to existing funding, and inconsistent decisions.
“The impact is increased job risk and descent into poverty by not getting a job or being fired from a job.
“The Scottish Government has made commitments to improve life chances and employment for disabled people, but is silent on the subject of AtW. It is incongruent that Social Security Disability Benefits are devolved but not the funding for support into work.
“Disabled people in Scotland want to be at work, to contribute to society. Reasonable adjustments to enable workers to fully and effectively participate in working life on an equal basis with other workers need to be funded. It is crucial that the right to work is protected, and no-one is left behind.
“It seems contrary to the policy of this party to defer important rights to the rUK. The devolution of AtW for Scotland would better support workers, enhancing the Fair Work agenda.
“Congress calls on the General Council to lobby the UK and Scottish Governments to agree the devolution of Access to Work as an additional activity of Social Security Scotland.
“Congress notes the workload pressures and the impact of underfunding in the DWP and Social Security Scotland. Congress calls on the General Council to lobby the UK and Scottish Governments for adequate funding which ensures timely and high-quality support and upholds Fair Work across all workforces delivering this vital service.”
Mover: STUC Disabled Workers’ Conference
Seconder: Public and Commercial Services Union (PCS)
RSS