The SNP has blasted the Tory-imposed benefit cap as more than 5,000 families in Scotland are subject to the limit.
In the latest publication by the DWP it has been revealed that nearly 400,000 households in Scotland are claiming Universal Credit, with more than 5,000 reaching the benefit cap.
The figure has skyrocketed during the year, with the number of people reaching the maximum financial limit that can be received, increasing from 1,754 in February to 5,052 in August – a staggering increase of 188%.
Currently, the benefits cap is set at £20,000 a year for a couple or single parent with a child and £15,410 a year for people living on their own.
Commenting, Shona Robison MSP, social justice commission convener said: “Lockdown has been tough for thousands of families across Scotland with many losing their jobs and having their lives turned upside down.
“However, the Tory benefits system has not reacted accordingly to provide an adequate safety net for those most in need.
“These figures show the benefit cap is completely unfit for purpose and needs to be lifted so families in hardship can receive the vital support they need to pay rent and bills, and put food on the table.
“Shortly, the Tories will also plunge families into further difficulty if they refuse to make the £20 uplift to Universal Credit permanent.
“At a time when households need it most this is unconscionable.
“In Scotland, we are building a social security system that is underpinned by dignity, respect and fairness by introducing game-changing policies like the Scottish Child Payment and the Best Start Grant.
“The Scottish Government will continue to create a social security system which has the people who need it most at its heart.”