The benefit has yet to be rolled out, but many people living with Crohn's or Colitis feel that lessons have been learned. The Scottish Government is developing a system that supports people with disabilities and those living with long term conditions.
We are pleased to have been engaged in a range of ways throughout the consultation period on the development of the ADP:
- We joined other charities for round table discussions with the Scottish Government as part of the inclusive approach taken.
- We assisted on a very practical level in the drafting of the toilet needs section of the ADP application form.
- Two Crohn's & Colitis UK community members, Amy and Edmund, were invited by Social Security Scotland to trial the draft form and comment on the both the content and their experience of completing the form.
Amy and Edmund were able to offer valuable insights to the researchers. They highlighted, for instance, that accidents and urgency are not the same thing. Multiple sections in the form may make it difficult for the assessor to fully appreciate how many different factors can be intertwined. This means they might not be able to get a holistic view of a person's situation.
To ensure a smooth transition from PIP to ADP, there will not be significant changes in the 1st roll-out. However, we will continue our engagement with the Scottish Government as this new benefit develops. This will ensure that the needs of people living with Crohn's and Colitis are fully understood.
We will keep updated on the progress and effectiveness of this new benefit, as the proof of the pudding will be in the eating.
