Question reference: S6W-00314
- Asked by: Audrey Nicoll, MSP for Aberdeen South and North Kincardine, Scottish National Party
- Date lodged: 1 June 2021
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Current status: Answered by Jenny Gilruth on 11 June 2021
Question
To ask the Scottish Government what action it is taking to raise awareness among EU Citizens who have not yet made an application to the UK Government Settlement Scheme.
Answer
Despite Scotland voting to remain in the European Union, EU citizens are being forced to apply to retain their basic rights. This Government is supporting EU citizens through the Stay in Scotland campaign . Our marketing campaign has relaunched and includes adverts on radio and in local newspapers, helping to reach those not online. Officials have engaged with a wide range of organisations, including religious organisations, parent groups, unions and prisons, to raise awareness. We have worked closely with local authorities and care providers, including funding a caseworker at COSLA and placed a particular focus on vulnerable groups such as the elderly, looked-after children and the homeless. We also deliver an advice service , with Citizens’ Advice Scotland, to support EU citizens applying for settlement.