30 April 2009 – Appointment of Maureen Reith to the Social Security Advisory Committee (SSAC)
The Social Security Advisory Committee is pleased to announce that the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, James Purnell, has appointed Ms Maureen Reith, as a member of the SSAC for a term of three years from 1 January 2009.
Ms Maureen A Reith is a social worker with over nineteen years experience. She has provided a social work service over the years to all client groups including childcare, criminal justice and learning disabilities. Since 1995, she has specialised in community care, providing a service to individuals, carers and families affected by disability. One of many roles included working with the Independent Living Fund (ILF) as a Social Work Assessor. Ms Reith is registered with the Scottish Social Services Council (SSSC) and was appointed as a Mental Health Officer in 2003. In 2005, Ms Reith was appointed and continues to serve as a General Member of the Mental Health Tribunal Service for Scotland. Ms Reith's interest in SSAC stemmed from her experience in social work, which provided her with a unique insight into the impacts and effects of social welfare provisions on the public.
Notes to Editors
- The SSAC is the advisory body for the United Kingdom on social security matters, except those relating to industrial injuries, war pensions, occupational pensions, and national insurance contributions. It has fourteen members, including the Chairman, each of whom is appointed by the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions for a term of three years.
- This appointment was made after consultation with the Office of the Scottish Executive.
- Appointments to the SSAC are regulated by the Office of the Commissioner for Public Appointments (OCPA) and each appointment is overseen by an independent assessor approved by OCPA.
