People in West Dunbartonshire are being urged to check whether they could be missing out on unclaimed financial support.
In the financial year 2024/25, Social Security Scotland helped more than 21,000 people across West Dunbartonshire access the benefits they are entitled to, but there are still many who are not receiving vital financial help.
Rebecca Fagan, benefit and welfare policy executive at Advice Direct Scotland, said: “Every year, millions of pounds worth of vital benefits go unclaimed because people are unaware of what they may be entitled to.
“Sometimes people just assume they won’t qualify.
“At a time when many households are under significant financial pressure, it is more important than ever that people check what support is available to them.
“At Advice Direct Scotland, we see first-hand the essential support provided to people across the country through every stage of life by Social Security Scotland benefits.
“Our trusted online benefits calculator – at www.benefits.advice.scot – is a simple, confidential way to get an accurate picture of what you are entitled to.
“This type of calculator can help people make informed decisions, boost household income and act as a vital first step in accessing advice and support before problems escalate.
“Our skilled advisers are also here to help people find out what they can do to claim all the benefits that they are entitled to.”
Read more:
DWP Universal Credit to increase in 2026 - exact amounts confirmed
Households urged to stay alert to 'dangerous' AI-powered phone scams
15.9 million Parking Charge Notices issued this year - here’s how to appeal
More than 22,000 Scottish pensioners have applied for a new benefit
Social Security Scotland now delivers 17 payments covering low-income families, disabled people, pensioners, young people and unpaid carers.
Among the payments is the Scottish Child Payment, a weekly benefit of £27.15 for each eligible child under 16 in families receiving Universal Credit or other qualifying benefits.
There is no limit to the number of children who can benefit.
Disability-related benefits include the Child Disability Payment and Adult Disability Payment, which help cover extra costs for disabled individuals.
The Pension Age Disability Payment replaces Attendance Allowance in Scotland and provides up to £110.40 per week to those aged 66 and over who need help caring for themselves.
Carer Support Payment, which has replaced Carer’s Allowance in Scotland, provides £83.30 per week.
Additional improvements for carers, including extra support for those caring for more than one person, are planned for March 2026.
Read more:
Support line offering help to struggling West Dunbartonshire families this winter
West Dunbartonshire families face 30 year housing list wait
5 simple supermarket swaps you need to make - and they could save you £483 in 2026
The rare Royal Mint 50p coin selling for more than 400 times its face value
Shirley-Anne Somerville, social justice secretary, said: “We know that many people are feeling the strain right now – especially after Christmas – and we don’t want anyone to miss out on the support they’re entitled to.
“That’s why we are investing in the people of Scotland with social security when they need it most.
“These payments can make a real difference to everyday lives, whether it’s helping with heating costs, caring responsibilities, enabling someone to be more independent or with raising a family.
“Many of our payments are available for people in and out of work – for example, Adult Disability Payment is available no matter whether someone is in work or has savings.
“Social security is a public service that anyone may need at any point in their life.
“I urge people to check if they are eligible and get the help they are entitled to.”
For more information, visit the Advice Direct Scotland website or call 0808 800 9060.
Share