As Scotland’s largest independent advice network, we welcome this opportunity to contribute our views and considerations concerning how the Department of Work and Pensions' new powers to identify, prevent, and reduce fraud and error should be applied in practice.  
Reflecting our role in representing the interests of those who seek advice from the network in Scotland, and our corresponding evidence base, our response is limited to the sections of the draft Code of Practice concerning eligibility verification notices (EVNs). Our response is drawn from evidence concerning the perspective of the advice sector and the people that it supports.

Key points  

•    The Code must be further developed. In it is not in its current form robust enough to minimise the risk of harm, stigma and deterrence, limiting the right to social security. 
•    Safeguarding focused conversations with potential and existing claimants about the EVN process and how it might impact them must be co-designed and referenced. 
•    Clear, unambiguous timeframes on when information must be provided to claimants highlighting that a response to an EVN has triggered further process. 
•    The Code must specify how it is envisaged that EVNs could work alongside measures to improve targeted support for people in vulnerable circumstances including:  
•    Accessible communication,  incorporating multi-channel prompts and check-ins,  self-help tools (including hypothetical examples of relevant and not relevant changes),  and flexible reporting options, is mandatory if the new powers are to be effective and not perpetuate harm.