Annual Report for year ended 2025-26

The Social Security (Scotland) Act 2018 provides the legislative basis for the Commission.  As an advisory Non-Departmental Public Body (NDPB), the SCoSS Framework Document sets out the broad framework within which the Commission operates and defines key roles and responsibilities which underpin the relationship between SCoSS and the Scottish Government. Our Standing Orders govern the operation of the Board and the Charter and Governance Sub-Committees.  The minutes of all meetings of the Board, Charter and Governance Sub-Committees are published on the Commission’s website.

SCoSS adheres to best practice principles and relevant guidance regarding corporate governance, primarily as set out in ‘On Board: a guide for members of statutory boards’. The Governance Sub-Committee undertakes oversight of SCoSS finances and governance. This includes considering the Commission’s budgetary position and risk register on a quarterly basis.

The Commission is supported by a Secretariat who are all Scottish Government civil servants.  Currently, the Secretariat consists of five members of staff.  The Scottish Government’s Senior Sponsor for the Commission is Douglas McLaren, Deputy Director, Head of Social Security Policy, Scottish Government.

The Commission Chair meeting with the Icelandic Welfare Appeals Committee, 24 October 2025.