Many families are left struggling with debt after burying a loved one, with funeral costs spiralling up to several thousands of pounds.
The Scottish Government has announced a new 10-point plan to tackle funeral poverty, including a new Funeral Expense Assistance benefit available to families by the summer of 2019.
We know funeral costs can push people into poverty
The plans will also include a funeral bond pilot scheme allowing people to save towards the costs. And consumer protection of funeral plans will also be strengthened by ministers.
The basic costs of burial rose 8% to £1,373 in Scotland last year, according to Citizens Advice Scotland. And a recent study by Citizens Advice bureau in Stirling found a spike in so-called “paupers’ funerals” – no-frills burials arranged by the state – costing councils in Scotland £500,000 last year.
“The Scottish Government is committed to supporting those who need it most following a bereavement,” said Equalities Minister Angela Constance.
“We know funeral costs can push people into poverty – and often it is those already in financial hardship who face increased difficulties,” she added.
