BENEFIT cuts and debt are the most common worries for Scots, a study has indicated.
The impact of the UK Government's welfare reforms was the main issue cited by Citizens Advice Scotland (CAS) staff.
More than half of staff (53%) quizzed in a study by the charity said concern over benefits was the single biggest problem. A total of 73% said it was one of the top two worries.
A total of 21% of advisers said debt was the main issue, with employment problems at 14%.
Concern over utility bills was the fastest-growing concern, with 22% describing it as one of their top two – up from 12% last year.
Some staff were also severely critical of some government agencies.
The Department of Work & Pensions and Jobcentres were described as "incompetent, disorganised, and showing a complete lack of respect to people".
One respondent cited the "farcical and inept medical assessments carried out on individuals" saying it was "causing undue stress and suffering on individuals with serious health problems".
The Government's Tax Office was described as "aggressive and unhelpful".
Susan McPhee, CAS Head of Policy said: "This year's survey shows that the reforms being made to the benefits system are really hitting the most vulnerable Scots, and our staff around the country now believe this is by far the greatest problem they see being brought to the CAB.
"Debt also remains high on the list, and there is a big rise in concern about the behaviour of utility companies – much of which was based on the issue of high fuel bills."
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