AN AYRSHIRE MSP has urged constituents to make sure they're not missing out on key benefits as the cost-of-living crisis bites.

As families across Scotland continue to face the consequences of rising food and fuel costs, Elena Whitham wants to make sure poeple and families are receiving all the benefits they are entitled to.

The call comes after the Joseph Rowntree Foundation recently reported that 5.7 million low-income households across the UK are having to cut costs or skip meals due to rising prices.

Ms Whitham has highlighted unique benefits delivered by the Scottish Government, such as the Scottish Child Payment, and has encouraged her constituents to reach out for help and advice to get support during these difficult times.

Ms Whitham, said: “With inflation continuing to rise, the trip to the supermarket for essential items has become a real worry and struggle for many.

"It is a sad state of affairs that in modern-day Britain, many households are facing the choice between heating and eating.

“The Scottish Government has made tackling poverty our number one commitment. Benefit payments such as the ground-breaking Scottish Child Payment, which is now £25 per week per child, are playing an important part in this mission."

The SNP representative added: “Social Security Scotland is now delivering 13 benefits to the people of Scotland.

"I have been informed that they are reviewing their processes to speed up decision-making.

"If you are applying for benefits that require evidence, such as the Adult Disability Payment and the Child Disability Payment, you should try to submit this with your application. Social Security Scotland can gather this for you, but it will take longer.

“Please make sure you are getting all the financial help you are due. Online benefits calculators such as entitledto.co.uk will tell you what you are eligible for across payments delivered by the Scottish and UK Governments. 

"If you are a constituent, you can also get in touch with my office and my team will be happy to point you in the right direction or assist with any issues you are having.”