AN expert group set up to consider changes to the welfare system in Scotland in the event of independence is to reveal its recommendations today.
The Expert Working Group on Welfare, which was set up by the Scottish Government, is to outline a number of proposals for what it believes could be a fairer and simpler welfare system. But concerns have already been expressed that its changes may not go far enough.
John Downie, director of public affairs at the Scottish Council for Voluntary Organisations, said: "It's encouraging to see that the group is aspiring towards a much more compassionate and supportive approach to welfare compared to the UK Government's punitive approach. It has produced some strong principles that put people at the heart of a new welfare system.
"Unfortunately, these recommendations don't go far enough to make a real step-change in the way we support people."
Deputy First Minister Nicola Sturgeon has said increasing the carer's allowance was an example of how independence could "create a welfare system that suits the needs of the people".
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