Since being set up in 2018, Social Security Scotland has established itself as a major employer in both Glasgow and Dundee. We currently employ people in over 3500 full time equivalent posts, offering secure employment and adding an estimated £290 million to the economy.
We’ve offered employment to people from diverse backgrounds, including lived experience of the benefits system, which helps us best support our clients and better serve their needs as well as reflecting modern Scotland.
Social Security Scotland is also helping to support job opportunities for disabled people and those excluded from the workforce in Dundee and Glasgow by placing orders for furniture for the design and fit-out of their buildings totalling £2 million with Supported Businesses.
Supported Businesses are enterprises who are committed to being inclusive employers with at least 30% of their workforce including disabled or disadvantaged people. Using the Scottish Government Supported Business Procurement Framework, Social Security Scotland placed contracts for the provision of furniture for its Head Office in Dundee as well as its Glasgow office.
The companies chosen for the procurement were Dundee’s Dovetail Enterprises and Glasgow’s RSBi/City Building. The contracts provided quality seating, tables and desks for Social Security Scotland which also demonstrated value for money for the public purse.
Natalie McCrindle, Head of Procurement and Commercial at Social Security Scotland, said:
“We want our procurement activities to reflect the people we serve, while also achieving best value. Working with Supported Businesses ensures we are helping bring people into local workforces in Dundee and Glasgow who have missed out on employment opportunities.
“We are committed to providing an excellent public service and making a positive social, economic and environmental impact through the items we purchase. These contracts will not only offer employment opportunities but help local Supported Businesses thrive in challenging economic circumstances.”
Garry Laing, Commercial Manager at Dovetail Enterprises, said:
“The award of the contract couldn’t have come at a better time for us. It kept our cash flow moving during the time of the pandemic when there was very little being manufactured. Our situation was further helped by Social Security Scotland making prompt payment, which is extremely important in maintaining a reliable income.”
Ben Kerr, RSBi Manager at City Building said:
“The contract has provided a steady workflow throughout the difficult months during and following the pandemic and has contributed to continued employment and the initiatives we support for training and development of our workforce and the support of those with disabilities.”
Businesses interested in bidding for procurement contracts for Social Security Scotland and the Scottish Government can visit the Public Contracts Scotland portal and look out for new opportunities.
