AYRSHIRE families are being urged to claim more benefits as more cases emerge of people not claiming all the support they are entitled to.

The Scottish Government is encouraging people in the local area to use the Financial Health Check which offers free, impartial advice on maximising income and reducing costs.

Low-income families in Ayrshire could benefit from the service which is being delivered by the Citizens Advice Network in Scotland and funded by the Scottish Government. People can access it by calling the free helpline on 0800 085 7145 and get the financial support they need and are entitled to.

Aileen Campbell, Cabinet Secretary for Communities and Local Government said: “Too many people are not accessing everything they could be, and we want to ensure the right support is there to help people make the most of their financial situation.

“The service will cover issues such as access to free school meals, benefit uptake, council tax reduction and cheaper deals on energy and other utilities to reduce household costs.