Appointment of Members to the Scottish Commission on Social Security

The Cabinet Secretary for Social Justice and Housing is seeking to appoint two Members to join the Scottish Commission on Social Security (SCoSS).This is an exciting opportunity to play a key role in shaping Scotland’s devolved social security system, ensuring it operates in line with the principles of dignity, fairness and respect.SCoSS is an independent advisory Non-Departmental Public Body established by the Social Security (Scotland) Act 2018. It provides independent scrutiny of Scottish social security regulations and reports to both the Scottish Parliament and Scottish Ministers.SCoSS plays a vital role in:Scrutinising draft social security regulations and making recommendationsReporting on how well the Social Security Charter commitments are being metContributing to the continuous improvement of Scotland’s social security systemThrough its work, SCoSS has made a significant contribution to the development of the Scottish social security system, with many recommendations influencing legislation.MEMBER ROLEAs a Member of SCoSS, you will:Work collaboratively with fellow Board members to deliver SCoSS’s statutory functionsAnalyse complex information, including draft regulations, and contribute to evidence-based recommendationsConstructively challenge proposals and support high-quality, timely reportingContribute to strategic discussions, risk assessment, and continuous improvementEngage in Board governance activities, including business planning and oversight of resourcesAttend regular Board meetings and prepare thoroughly in advanceUphold the Principles of Public Life in Scotland and the values underpinning the social security systemSCoSS operates as a “working Board”, meaning all Members actively contribute to scrutiny and decision-making.Further informationAn online information session will be held on Monday 29 June 2026, from 1 pm to 2 pm, led by the Panel Chair and the Chair of SCoSS.This session is an opportunity to learn more about what is involved in being a member of the SCoSS Board and to ask any questions you may have.If you would like to attend or if you have any questions about the role itself please contact Stephen.Herbert@socialsecuritycommission.scot.For any questions about the public appointment process or the application portal please contact public.appointments@gov.scot.REMUNERATION AND TIME COMMITMENTThe Member role is remunerated at a daily fee of £225, based on a 7.5‑hour day. This fee is set in accordance with the Scottish Government’s Public Sector Pay Policy for public appointments. The role is non‑pensionable, meaning no employer pension contributions are paidMembers devote 36 days per annum to performing your functions as and when required. You will be expected to attend meetings regularly, prepare in advance, and contribute fully to all aspects of the role.Board meetings are currently held online approximately once a month, with around one in‑person meeting held annually. Additional ad hoc online meetings are scheduled as required.SKILLS AND EXPERIENCEIn respect of these posts, both the priority and essential criteria are a mandatory requirement.Priority CriteriaGood knowledge or experience of Social Security and the ability to interpret and apply this within the Scottish Social Security system.Essential CriteriaAnalysing information and making recommendationsWorking collaboratively, constructively and effectively with others.Personal Commitment to progressing the Social Security Principles.Challenging the views of others in a constructive and supportive wayDesirable CriteriaThe following criteria are desirable and are not required for appointment. Applicants who do not meet these criteria will not be disadvantaged unless candidates are otherwise assessed as being of equal merit:Lived experience of poverty, or a strong understanding of the impacts of poverty.Lived experience of disability, or a strong understanding of the impacts of disability.