Almost 6,000 people received a Funeral Support Payment in its first full year, according to statistics published today.
Since it started making payments last September, Social Security Scotland has paid out £8.7 million to people who have lost a loved one. Eligible applicants currently receive an average of £1,761 to help with the costs of a burial or cremation and expenses such as travel and flowers. Funeral Support Payment replaced the UK Government’s Funeral Expense Payment in Scotland. Social Security Secretary Shirley-Anne Somerville said: “Coping with the death of a loved one is one of the most difficult events any of us can face – it’s even harder when there’s extra stress trying to find the money to pay for a funeral. “It’s important that we support people at key times like this. We want to do what we can to stop those who are dealing with grief having to get into debt too. “I’d encourage anyone who thinks they might qualify for this important financial support to find out more and apply. People can apply for the payment up to 6 months after a funeral has taken place, although if you could not apply within this timescale because of COVID-19, we’ll accept your application as on time. “Making sure that everyone gets the financial support they are entitled to is a basic step in putting dignity and respect at the heart of social security in Scotland.” |
Deadline News is the leading independent news and picture agency in Scotland.
Supplying content to print, broadcast and online colleagues across the globe since 2000, we cover stories throughout the UK but concentrate largely on the news footprint of Central Scotland.
Our dedicated team of journalists and photographers cover everything from breaking news, politics and human interest stories to celebrity appearances, court reporting and sport.