Seòmar agus comataidhean

That is me finished, for now.

Good morning. My first question is for Laura Caven from COSLA and for anyone else who would like to comment. We have seen considerable variation in rates of support for kinship carers across councils. What are the main reasons for that, and is there concern that the needs of some kinship carers are not being met because of the variation in policies?

Good morning. My question is for Alison Gillies. Your briefing is really helpful, but will you expand on the issues that kinship carers have in trying to access UC and other reserved benefits?

The question is open to anyone who wants to answer it. The committee frequently hears horror stories about the detrimental impact of universal credit. How is UC impacting on kinship carers? Is there anything that needs to be urgently addressed? I appreciate that the second panel of witnesses might be able to answer that in more detail.

No—the question is for anyone who would like to answer it. However, if no one wants to do so, I can take up the issue with the next panel.

Yes.

Thanks for that very comprehensive response. There are significant issues with the bill, to say the least. Do any other witnesses wish to add anything? I know that Andy Sirel wants to come in and we are pushed for time, but it is a very important issue.

Good morning, witnesses. This question is for Phil Arnold from the British Red Cross. In your written submission, you state:

“If the bill becomes law ... it will reduce access to the ... asylum system, incentivise ... dangerous journeys, ... add to delays within the asylum system, and reduce the support”

that is available. Will you expand on those points?

We are pushed for time, but—this is for any member of the panel who wants to comment—what is your knowledge of the support provision for victims of human trafficking? Do you agree with the Scottish Government that consent should be withheld on that clause?

It is for anyone who can answer it.