PRISONERS at Scotland’s largest prison will be the first to take part in a scheme providing inmates with help claiming Universal Credit upon release.
The Minister for Welfare Delivery, Will Quince, will visit HM Prison Barlinnie, Glasgow, today to announce the scheme, which will pair those close to release with work coaches to support them in their search for employment and ensure they are able to access finances once they leave prison.
The scheme, which is delivered with help from the Scottish Prison Service, has been trialled in HM Prison Cornton Vale and HM Prison Perth since September.
READ MORE: Prison death rates still ‘horrific’ despite promises for action following high-profile suicides
But the latest trial at Barlinnie will also see prisoners given access to a new hotline, giving them the opportunity to make their Universal Credit claim via phone before leaving prison.
It is hoped the new scheme will help to prevent reoffending.
Quince said: “Better preparing prisoners for life on the outside helps them unlock employment opportunities once they’re released.
“Without access to work or money some can feel pushed to re-offend, and this pilot aims to take prisoners out of the cycle of crime and get them into work.
“This has benefits for both them and the wider economy.
“Working together with the Scottish Prison Service the UK Government is determined to ensure ex-offenders stay out of prison for good.”
Currently prisoners at Barlinnie cannot begin a Universal Credit claim until after they are released, which can lead to delays in receiving the support if they do not have the appropriate identification documents or are not able to get to a Jobcentre to verify their identity.
READ MORE: Citizens Advice Scotland calls for changes to Univeral Credit
Jobcentre staff will support prisoners in obtaining IDs, preparing CVs and identifying training, work experience and other employment support.
Around 250,000 people in Scotland are currently receiving Universal Credit.
The Tories’ flagship welfare policy has faced criticism, particularly for the five-week waiting period for the first payment.
Earlier this month Citizens Advice Scotland called for a “fundamental” overhaul of the system.
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