From the early stages of the development and rollout of Universal Credit we have collaborated closely with Scottish Government, Local Authorities and stakeholders. Our roll out so far includes a mixture of rural and urban sites to help us better understand the complex requirements that a reform of this scale entails. We have noted concerns and unique circumstances in Scotland and have taken action to ensure that they are accommodated. We are also working closely with Scottish Government to plan for implementation of the UC flexibilities devolved to Scotland in the Scotland Act 2016.<\/p>
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Universal Credit is available in every jobcentre in Scotland to all new claims from single jobseekers. We are expanding the UC full service and nine jobcentres are taking claims for all claimant types.<\/p>
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Some of the lessons we have learned include the need for better communications with landlords and a smoother process for gathering information to make the first claim. We have made improvements to our processes as a result of this.<\/p>
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