Improved support for people facing bereavement

Our Bereavement Service of specially trained client advisers provide help to people reporting a death who need to update and close payments for benefits we administer.

With just one phone call, people can report the death of a family member, friend or loved one directly to an expert adviser who will take the necessary information for all payments that need to be cancelled.

The Bereavement Service is also connected to the UK-wide ‘Tell Us Once’ scheme, which lets government departments and local councils know when someone dies. If people use ‘Tell Us Once’ and choose to share information, our client advisers can automatically follow up quickly with any actions for Scottish social security without the need for them to send information separately. This means people do not have to worry about more administrative tasks at a difficult time.

Client advisers can also signpost and help eligible people to apply for Funeral Support Payment. The payment helps families on low incomes who receive tax credits or certain benefits get the financial support they need to help pay towards the cost of a funeral.

£27.7 million has been paid to support bereaved people in Scotland, according to the latest figures published on 15 August, 2022.

When calling the Bereavement Service, or applying for Funeral Support Payment, people can be assured they are speaking to specially trained, experienced and compassionate staff.

Our Bereavement Service is continually being developed and by listening to the people who use it – helping us deliver the service people need at one of the most difficult times in life.

Evelyn Edmonds, a client adviser from our Bereavement Service, said:

“I have been in the Bereavement Service team since last year and find it is really helping our bereaved clients.

“By having a team who are focussed solely on talking to clients who are grieving and being able to signpost them means we are helping them maximise any benefits they could be entitled to.

“Speaking to bereaved clients is not always easy but I feel I am able to help and reassure them as well as noting any information we might need.”

Background:

• Funeral Support Payment helps pay for funeral costs if you live in Scotland. The payment can be used towards funeral costs for a baby, child or adult. This includes babies who were stillborn.
• People can apply for support up to 6 months after the date of their loved one’s funeral.
• People can apply for Funeral Support Payment online, via a paper application form or by calling us free on 0800 182 2222 and asking to speak to the specially trained bereavement team.
• More information can be found online at https://www.mygov.scot/funeral-support-payment/