UP to £20 billion of means-tested benefits were left unclaimed all over the UK in 2016-17.
Holyrood’s Social Security Committee found claims are not made for a variety of reasons, such as a lack of awareness, stigma and living in rural areas.
A report published by the committee today admitted that the figure could be much higher due to a lack of accurate and comprehensive data on uptake rates.
In 2016, changes to the Scotland Act gave the Scottish Government new powers over benefits, leading to the formation of Social Security Scotland to manage and utilise these powers.
The agency, which has its headquarters in Dundee, will be given complete control of the social security system in Scotland this year.
The report said: “The committee recommends that joint working between the UK and Scottish Governments, to consider how best to encourage take-up of all benefits, should be discussed formally between both Governments.”
Currently, the Scottish Government is legally required to create a strategy to ensure maximum uptake, but the UK Government has no such statutory duty.
Committee convener Bob Doris said: “It is simply not good enough that billions in benefits continue to go unclaimed every year.
“It is absolutely vital we get more accurate data on the numbers entitled to benefits so that any communications strategies can be targeted at those in need who are missing out.”
The committee concluded a “joint effort” by both Holyrood and Westminster should be adopted to ensure people are receiving payments they are entitled to.
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