It is hard to believe that summer recess is now drawing to a close, not least because the weather has left much to be desired.

However, I have relished this opportunity to travel across the length and breadth of my constituency to meet with the people and organisations who make Ayrshire the great place that it is to live.

Parliament will soon return, and it will be back to business, legislating for the people of Scotland.

There can be no doubt we find ourselves in challenging circumstances. One of which I want to discuss is the upcoming winter months which will be here before we know it.

📢Applications for the new Carer Support Payment are now open across Ayrshire. 💷Eligible carers will receive £81.90 a week from November. 💻Find out more www.mygov.scot/carer-support-payment

Posted by Elena Whitham MSP on Thursday 22 August 2024

The decision of the UK Labour Government, and the silence of Scottish Labour, in cutting the Winter Fuel Payment has been shameful. This took place just weeks before the payment was devolved to the Scottish Government and without any consultation with Scottish Government Ministers.

This has resulted in an estimated £160m of funding being wiped from the Scottish Government's budget. This leaves the Scottish Government with no choice but to replicate the means testing policy of this payment.

In Scotland the winters tend to be colder and wetter, so this is the last thing we need when household budgets are already constrained.

🦙I had a great visit to Little Peru near Crosshill to see the fabulous Galloway and Southern Ayrshire UNESCO Biosphere...

Posted by Elena Whitham MSP on Wednesday 21 August 2024

I would urge you to check now if you are eligible for pension credits to see if you qualify for the payment. Please also help an older family member or friend do this. Visit www.gov.uk/pension-credit-calculator

We are continuing to deliver a fairer social security service in Scotland. I am delighted the new Carer Support Payment is now available in Ayrshire. This is a payment of £81.90 per week for eligible carers.

As we move in to winter it is so important to check you are getting all of the money you are entitled to. You can use an online benefit calculator such as www.entitledto.co.uk

While my office cannot give financial advice, we are here to point you in the right direction or help with any casework issues you have. Please email elena.whitham.msp@parliament.scot or call 01290 319126.