THE unemployed in rural areas are suffering more than most from the huge cuts being made to the benefits system, according to Citizens Advice Scotland.
A survey of jobseekers by CAS reveals a snapshot of clients whose benefits have been cut or withdrawn because of difficulties surrounding work in rural areas.
Ailsa Kellett, from the Isle of Lewis, who is unemployed, is receiving £47 a week in Jobseekers Allowance – cut due to previous administrative errors by the Department of Work & Pensions. Her home is poorly insulated with coal-fired central heating, requiring a £7 bag of coal a day.
CAS chief executive Margaret Lynch said: "There is no doubt those in remote and rural areas face additional burdens."
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