Contract involves implementation of first two benefits in new service by summer 2019
The Scottish Government has signed an £8.3 million, two-year contract with IBM UK to build the first phase of its new social security IT system.
It is the first in a number of large procurements for digital services – estimated to be £190 million in all – to support the creation of the country’s new powers for controlling a number of state benefits.
It derives from the Scotland Act 2016, which gave the Scottish Government new powers in the area.
The first phase, covered by the contract, will support the implementation of the Best Start Grant and Funeral Expense Assistance, scheduled to be delivered by summer 2019.
The contract includes provision for up to two further benefits to be included once the timeline for delivery is clear.
Social Security Minister Jeane Freeman (pictured) said: “Transferring the newly devolved benefits to Scotland safely and securely is our number one priority and the award of this contract marks another major step in that work.
“Our new social security system will be the largest, most complex programme of change since devolution.
“From the very beginning of this process we have been clear that our social security system will be developed in partnership with people who have personal experience of the current benefits system and the IT system is no different.
“This new service will be directly shaped by the needs and views of the people who will use it, as will all of our Scottish social security system.”
Image from gov.scot, Open Government Licence v3.0
