New social security agency to bring 1,500 jobs to Dundee and Glasgow

Nicola Sturgeon: Photo credit - Scottish Government

Scotland’s new social security agency will bring 1,500 new jobs, according to First Minister Nicola Sturgeon.

The agency will be headquartered in Dundee but will also have a site in Glasgow, with the jobs split evenly between the two cities.

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Sturgeon said having powers over newly devolved benefits presented an “exciting opportunity” to create a social security system for Scotland that is “fairer and based on dignity and respect”.

She added: “I’m delighted to confirm that Dundee and Glasgow will be the locations of the new social security agency. Establishing headquarters in Dundee demonstrates our support for the city’s ongoing regeneration. Having two sites will ensure that economic benefit is spread between the east and west of Scotland and across the cities’ neighbouring areas.

“The agency will also have a local presence with additional staff working across the country that will ensure that economic benefit and jobs will also be spread across all parts of Scotland.

“Our new social security system is the largest, most complex programme of change in the history of devolution. We will continue to work hard to engage with local partners and our innovative social security experience panel as we develop the service.”

Dundee City Council leader Councillor John Alexander said the announcement was a “major vote of confidence” in Dundee by the Scottish Government.

He said: “The agency will bring with it several hundred new jobs and will provide a notable boost for the local economy generally.

"I have been working closely with the Scottish Government to ensure that our shared aspirations can be delivered and this will no doubt complement that work and will be a great asset to Dundee.”

Glasgow City Council leader Councillor Susan Aitken promised to ensure that the agency has “the right staff and that people who would most benefit are job-ready and able to take up these opportunities”.