Framework document between the Scottish Government and the Scottish Commission on Social Security
Framework document between the Scottish Commission on Social Security (SCoSS) and the Scottish Government, setting out the broad framework within which SCoSS operates.
Updated June 2024.
Contents
- Document Cover
- Introduction
- Purpose
- Governance and Accountability
- Relationship between Scottish Government and SCoSS
- Planning and Reporting
- Budget Management
- Audit
- Annual Report and Accounts
- External audit
- Internal Audit
- Budget management and delegated authority
- Governance and Risk
- Specific Financial Provisions
- Annexe A – Specific Delegated Financial Authorities
Introduction
1. This framework document is agreed between the Scottish Commission on Social Security and the Scottish Ministers. It summarises how the Scottish Commission on Social Security (SCoSS) and Scottish Government (SG) will work together, and the key roles and responsibilities of:
- the Board;
- the Secretary of SCoSS;
- the Accountable Officer; and
- the Scottish Ministers.
2. The framework document does not confer any legal powers or responsibilities. However, it forms a key part of the accountability and governance framework and should be reviewed by the SG and SCoSS regularly and at least every two to three years. Any changes will be agreed between the SCoSS Board and the Scottish Ministers.
3. Any question regarding the interpretation of the document will be determined by the SG after consultation with the Board of SCoSS. However, legislative provisions shall take precedence over any part of the framework document. SCoSS’s statutory responsibilities as defined in the Social Security (Scotland) Act 2018, agreed by the Scottish Parliament, therefore take priority.
4. SCoSS is an independent advisory Non-Departmental Public Body (“NDPB”). As is the case with all other relevant NDPBs, SCoSS has certain responsibilities to the SG in undertaking its work. However, in performing its statutory functions, SCoSS is not subject to the direction or control of any member of the Scottish Government.
5. SCoSS is not permitted to establish any subsidiaries or enter into joint ventures without express approval from Scottish Ministers.
6. References to SCoSS include the Chair, Members and any working groups or committees formed by SCoSS.
Copies of the document shall be published on the SCoSS and SG websites.1The Scottish Commission on Social Security website can be accessed at— Home – Scottish Commission on Social Security (socialsecuritycommission.scot)