The Scottish Government hopes to launch Funeral Expense Assistance within two years

Support for those who are unable to pay for a funeral has been announced.

The Scottish Government hopes to launch the new Funeral Expense Assistance scheme by mid-2019.

The Government unveiled plans for the benefit to help those unable to pay rising funeral costs earlier this year.

This week, a 10-point plan to help people struggling with debt to manage funeral costs was set out by Equalities Secretary Angela Constance. The plan includes a bond scheme to help people pay for their own funeral and a fund to tackle funeral poverty.

Constance said: “The death of a loved one is an incredibly difficult time for anyone. It can be even harder when money is tight. We know funeral costs can push people into poverty – and often it is those already in financial hardship who face increased difficulties.

“That is why we are taking decisive action to tackle this growing issue and have engaged with local authorities, the funeral sector and other support services. I am pleased by the willingness to work together to find solutions that support more affordable funerals.”

A leaflet has also been published to help people with practical new guidance on how to make their wishes clear and encourages conversations with family and friends.

Recent research has shown that the cost of burials and cremations is on the rise. A study last year by the Stirling Citizens Advice Bureau found that Scottish councils spent £500,000 on so-called pauper funerals – where the person who died or their loved ones cannot pay for the costs involved.