MSP has highlighted the millions being spent by the Scottish Government on mitigating UK Government welfare cuts, after new figures revealed that a total of more than £2million was paid to people in the Highlands under the Discretionary Housing Payment scheme. In the Highlands, more than 5,600 people in receipt of housing benefit or Universal Credit were given additional assistance towards housing costs by the Scottish Government.
Ms Forbes said: ‘A massive £1.4 million was spent solely on mitigating the bedroom tax in the region during the period April to September of this year.’
The Discretionary Housing Payment scheme provides financial assistance towards housing costs for those claiming housing benefit or the housing element of Universal Credit.