Support towards cost of funeral
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Scottish Government Viewpoint
MORE people are eligible for support from the state than they might think when it comes to meeting the cost of a loved one's funeral.
A new benefit providing help for people on low incomes to meet bills was launched last autumn but many still do not know much about it.
Funeral Support Payment is delivered by Social Security Scotland, replacing the Department for Work and Pensions Funeral Expense Payment for those living in Scotland.
The changes mean around 40 per cent more folk will be eligible for financial support at the point of bereavement.
The public can also apply over the phone, by post or online for the first time.
Highland funeral director Jamie Rodgers is helping to spread the word that financial support is available. He knows how difficult it can be for low-income families when a loved one dies.
Mr Rodgers, owner of Aviemore-based Jamie R Rodgers Funeral Directors, said: "People have just experienced a devastating blow and are then put under major pressure to find money that they don't have for a funeral.
"They are desperate to give their loved one the perfect goodbye but simply can't due to financial worries.
"I think Social Security Scotland's Funeral Support Payment is really helpful – it can be the difference between having a funeral or not, and I think everyone deserves a funeral.
"My advice would be to contact your funeral director and they can help you to find out if you are eligible for Funeral Support Payment. You may be surprised."
Scotland's social security secretary Shirley-Anne Somerville says the support has been designed and tested with the public, funeral directors, welfare advisers and others to "ensure the end product is one we can be proud of".
She said: "Coping with the death of a loved one is one of the most tragic events any of us can face.
"It's even harder when there is extra stress finding the money to pay for a funeral.
"The new support will reach far more people struggling with funeral costs and is backed by around £2 million additional funding.
"The flat-rate element of the payment is £700 for the majority of applications, and we have committed to annually uprating this in line with inflation – something the UK Government has not done since 2003."
And support is not just available for those facing the cost in the new year.
Those who have had to pay for a funeral within the past six months could still be eligible.
Funeral Support Payment is available to people living in Scotland on certain benefits or tax credits.
* Find out more at www.mygov.scot/funeral-support-payment or call 0800 182 2222 to speak to a trained adviser.
