Making sure that everyone receives the financial help that they are entitled to is one of the first steps towards putting dignity and respect at the heart of social security policy in Scotland.
It is estimated that, in 2014/15, for tax credits and the main income-related benefits, there could be over 500,000 cases of individuals or families in Scotland not claiming the benefits or support they are entitled to.
A week-long campaign to raise awareness of how people can claim the benefits they are entitled to, was launched on March, 7 2017. It highlighted the range of support available - such as the Sure Start Maternity Grant, Carer’s Allowance and the Funeral Expenses Payment.
There will be two further approaches to this activity during 2017. One approach will be audience-led, focusing on young carers in June and those aged 65 and over in the Autumn.
In between these two pieces of activity a broad-brush, all-Scotland approach will be taken to increase uptake of social security by encouraging everyone to claim for the benefits and support they are entitled to.