Backing local businesses and boosting the economy

Social Security Scotland helps support the local economies of Dundee and Glasgow by purchasing goods and services from local businesses who share our commitment to adding benefits to the community.

We are committed to working with Supported Businesses when we can. These are businesses who have pledged to offer jobs to disabled people and those who have experienced barriers to employment.

Dovetail Enterprises is a furniture manufacturer based in Dundee that offers training and job opportunities to disabled people and others who have experienced issues finding employment. The company has been awarded three contracts through the Scottish Government’s Supported Business Framework (now replaced by the Scottish Government’s Supported Businesses Dynamic Purchasing System) since March 2019 for office furniture in our offices in Dundee and Glasgow.

Our Chief Executive David Wallace visited Dovetail and toured the Dundee factory.

The visit coincided with the launch of our Annual Procurement Report which details our commitment to working with Supported Businesses. Our total spend during the reporting period April 2022 – March 2023 on contracts awarded to Supported Businesses was more than £900,000.

On his tour, David met Commercial Manager Garry Laing and workers including Bedding Department supervisor Michael Laidlaw and his guide dog, Violet and commented:

“I’m very pleased to witness for myself the work Dovetail Enterprises are carrying out for Social Security Scotland. When we formally opened five years ago, we promised to deliver our service with dignity, fairness and respect. This also applies to the people and organisations who work for and with us.

“I am glad to see the opportunities this Supported Business is offering to people who may face barriers to employment and the positive impact on our local economy in Dundee.”

Garry Laing said:

“Working with Social Security Scotland has made a positive contribution to turnover and has enhanced the profile of Dovetail. It has also allowed us to develop and foster relationships with customers in the public sector which continues to grow.

“Most importantly, the revenue generated for Dovetail through the Supported Business Framework has helped to ensure we can continue to provide employment and training opportunities for disabled and disadvantaged people.”