More than £44 million has been paid to help thousands of people with the cost of a funeral via a Scottish Government benefit, according to latest figures.

Funeral Support Payment provides money to help cover funeral costs and ease financial pressure for people suffering bereavement.

The statistics show it had helped more than 23,000 people by the end of December.

The payment can be used to pay towards costs including burial and cremation, a coffin, flowers and travel. The amount paid depends on costs, and the average payout between April and December last year was £1969.

People who get qualifying benefits and are responsible for paying for a funeral have been urged to check if they are eligible for this vital financial support and avoid getting into debt. They can apply up to six months after the date of the funeral.

Commenting, SNP MSP for Renfrewshire North and West, Natalie Don, said:

“Coming to terms with a loss and grief is devastating at any time. As people continue to deal with the cost of living crisis, the Scottish Government wants to ease the pressure on those who can least afford to pay for a funeral.

“Since the Funeral Support Payment launched, the SNP Scottish Government has provided over £44 million in vital financial support to help people and families across Scotland pay for a funeral.

“I would encourage anyone living in Renfrewshire and facing these costs to check if they are eligible and make an application, even if they have already planned for and made other financial arrangements – it is vital that constituents receive the support that they are entitled to during difficult times.”