AS some Tele readers will be aware, I have previously mentioned that I have been undertaking work in relation to McClure Solicitors going into administration in 2021, as this has particularly impacted people from Inverclyde.

This is because McClure’s were a Greenock-based firm, so many local people used their services when setting up trusts and wills.

Since they went into administration, a Glasgow-based firm, Jones Whyte LLP, took over the goodwill, work in progress and certain assets of McClure’s.

If you have been impacted by this, the Law Society of Scotland have an extensive and well-researched 'Frequently Asked Questions' page on their website specifically for former clients of McClure’s.

If you are unhappy about actions taken by solicitors or staff acting for McClure’s, or actions taken since then by Jones & Whyte or another solicitor acting for you, you can make a complaint to the Scottish Legal Complaints Commission (SLCC). They will investigate any allegations or complaints of misconduct by solicitors in Scotland.

As your local MSP, I have had meetings with senior officials from the SLCC and the Law Society of Scotland about the impact this situation is having on many of my constituents. I have also raised this matter with the Scottish Government.

As the convenor of the Parliament’s Delegated Powers and Law Reform Committee, I am also aware of amendments lodged in the Trusts & Successions (Scotland) Bill that is currently before the Scottish Parliament, which have drawn on the experience of the situation with McClure’s to help ensure that what has happened to some of the former clients of McClure’s cannot happen again.

There is also a meeting taking place in parliament today with former McClure’s clients to hear how they’ve been affected by this and garner support for action to be taken and lessons to be learned.

I will continue to press for more investigations into the situation and more action to support those who are affected by McClure’s going into administration.

Finally, I want to put on record my concerns about the changes to work capability assessments announced in the Autumn Statement, as these could mean people receive less support based on a change of criteria rather than a change in their health.

This is another reminder of how cruel the Westminster system is, as they are choosing to target some of the most vulnerable people in our communities who need our support most.

I therefore welcome the letter from Social Justice Secretary, Shirley-Anne Somerville MSP, to DWP Secretary Mel Stride MP highlighting how the Scottish Government has taken a different approach with its social security system being based on treating people with fairness, dignity and respect.

Welfare systems should be rooted in supporting people who need some extra help, not about penalising people – especially those will ill-health and disabilities.