Putting lived experience at the heart of social security reform
Inclusion Scotland’s Poverty and Social Security Lived Experience Group (PLEG) brings disabled people together to share their experiences of poverty and the benefits system in order to shape change. The group creates a space where lived experience is recognised as expertise, and where disabled people can influence the policies and decisions that affect their financial security and everyday lives.
Through this work, we ensure that discussions about poverty and social security are grounded in the realities of disabled people’s lives. The group highlights the barriers people face, from accessing support to navigating complex systems, and works to challenge stigma, inequality and exclusion.
From lived experience to influence
The PLEG has previously contributed to key areas of policy work, including a review of Employment Support Allowance and Inclusion Scotland’s response to the Independent Review of Adult Disability Payment. While the group has played an important role in shaping this work, it has not always had a formal membership structure, and meetings were often held on an ad hoc basis.
We are now refreshing and strengthening the group, with a focus on building a more sustainable and supported model of participation. This includes developing clearer structures, increasing resourcing, and creating a consistent space for engagement.
Building confidence, connection and collective voice
As part of this renewed approach, we are working to support both existing and new members to feel confident and empowered to take part in co-production. The group provides opportunities to build skills, share knowledge and contribute to shaping measures to tackle poverty, including improvements to the delivery of social security in Scotland.
Alongside influencing policy, the group offers a supportive space for members to connect, share experiences and learn from each other. It is part of Inclusion Scotland’s wider participation approach, which centres disabled people in decision-making and works to ensure their voices are heard, valued and acted upon.