'Important that folk access financial support they are entitled to', says Caithness, Sutherland and Ross SNP MSP Maree Todd
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IT'S vital that people access all the financial support they are entitled to amid the deepening cost-of-living crisis, MSP Maree Todd has said.
The MSP for Caithness, Sutherland and Ross, is encouraging benefit take-up following a debate in the Scottish Parliament on the topic.
During the November debate, the minister for social security, Ben Macpherson, stated: “We are committed to doing what we can to ensure that people are aware of what they are entitled to and feel empowered to seek what they are due.
“That is why we are working day in, day out to remove barriers, provide support, tackle any stigma around applying for benefits and get more money out to help low-income households than is being made available anywhere else in the UK.”
The Scottish Government provides 12 benefits through Social Security Scotland. This includes the likes of the Scottish Child Payment, Carer’s Allowance Supplement, Young Carer Grant, Child Winter Heating Assistance and Adult Disability Payment.
And urging people to access all the benefits they are entitled to, Maree Todd said: “Social security is an important human right, not a privilege, and none of us know when we might need it.
“As the cost-of-living crisis worsens, it’s more important than ever that folk access the financial support they are eligible for to maximise their incomes and help them through the tough months ahead.
“I would urge my constituents to look up their benefit eligibility with Social Security Scotland to make sure they are receiving the support they are entitled to.
She added: “The Scottish Government has worked hard to ensure the process of applying for benefits in Scotland is person-centred, where people are treated with dignity and respect.”
People can apply online at www.mygov.scot/browse/benefits, by post, on the phone or at an appointment with a Social Security Scotland local delivery team. To apply by phone or to make an appointment they should call 0800 182 2222.
