SOCIAL Security Scotland now has more than 100 staff working across the country to set up a local service.

The new public service set up by the Scottish Government was created to deliver a number of benefits across the country for people on low incomes, disabled people, carers, those suffering fuel poverty and those entering the workplace.

The service has announced that it will be recruiting up to 150 more people this year for its 32 local authority areas and aims to provide face-to-face support to local communities across Scotland.

Employees will work in tandem with organisations and groups in local communities, as well as local authorities, to promote the benefits available through Social Security Scotland.

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Speaking at a visit to a local delivery location within Voluntary Action East Renfrewshire, Social Security Secretary Shirley-Anne Somerville, said:“This is another step forward in growing our new social security service in communities across Scotland and shows how we are doing things differently based on our principles of dignity, fairness and respect.

“The introduction of this direct application support in local communities is a first for access to social security in Scotland. It gives people the option to apply in the way that is right for them – be it by post, phone, online or face-to-face.

“I am delighted to be able to visit Barrhead. It is great to see the how we will be located side by side with other vital community services – making it easier for people to access a range of support in a single place and right in the heart of their community.

“It is also great to meet some of our new recruits who will be working from here and will be the real face of this new public service.”