UNIVERSAL Credit claims have surged to more than 110,000 a month as the coronavirus pandemic hits pay, jobs and the economy.

The average monthly rate before the crisis was 20,000.

Social Security Secretary Shirley-Anne Somerville said the “huge” increase shows just how badly the health crisis has affected the incomes of ordinary Scots.

She said: “These are difficult and worrying times for everyone, with many people requiring financial support for the first time and even more pressure on those who were already struggling to make ends meet.”

Brought in behind schedule by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) amidst a hail of criticism from claimants, charities and councils, Universal Credit carries a waiting time of around five weeks for the first payment.

Before the pandemic, the Trussell Trust, which is the UK’s biggest foodbank network, linked the system to record demand for its emergency parcels, while social landlords have blamed it for increased arrears.

Somerville says the new figures show “just how many people across the country are struggling financially due to the coronavirus pandemic”.

The Scottish Government and the Citizens Advice network have now launched a new campaign to raise awareness of the financial support available to people.

The awareness drive will provide information and advice on rent and mortgage payments, energy bills, council tax and the benefits people may be entitled to.

People will be able to access this advice online, by phone or by contacting their local Citizens Advice Bureau.

Somerville said: “It is welcome that people are claiming the support that they are entitled to from the DWP, and I would encourage people to look into what additional help is available. Even if you are not entitled to Universal Credit, there could be other assistance that you can access so it is worth checking.”

The Dunfermline MSP went on: “We’ve been working with the Citizens Advice network in Scotland to create this central source of information, with everything from guidance on benefits, right through to what you can do if you are worried about paying your mortgage or rent.”

Derek Mitchell, chief executive of Citizens Advice Scotland, urged households to use the information available. He said: “The Citizens Advice network in Scotland is known for always being there to help and the support we give will be more important than ever to help people avoid getting into crisis.

“There may also be lots of people who have never used our services before and it’s crucial that they know our information and advice is there for them too.

“Our national network of Citizens Advice Bureaux is still operating for those who need it – if you have been financially impacted by the coronavirus outbreak, your local Citizens Advice Bureau can help make sure you have access to all the income you are entitled to, as well as giving tailored advice about what’s on offer within local communities across Scotland.

“There’s increased demand for our advice on financial services, that’s why we’ve created dedicated Covid-19 content online so people get the information they need 24/7 and from the comfort of their own homes.

“We’ve also got a dedicated helpline for people who might not be able to access our services online.

“If you have been financially impacted by the coronavirus outbreak and require free and confidential financial support, please visit cas.org.uk or call 0800 028 1456. Local Citizens Advice Bureaux are situated around the country. To find your local service, simply enter your postcode at cas.org.uk/bureaux.”