People wonder what politicians do all week. Despite the perception, attending Parliament to vote and debate is just part of the role.

One of the most demanding, but also rewarding, aspects is the casework my team and I take on.

This covers a wide range of issues. But something that we have been continually dealing with the past few years is people struggling with the cost-of-living crisis.

I was shocked to hear that the Department for Work and Pensions has estimated that £1.7 billion in Pension Credit was unclaimed by up to one million households in 2021/22.

Diving a bit deeper, it is estimated that in East Ayrshire, more than £4.5 million has been unclaimed, and the figure stands at more than £3.6 million in South Ayrshire.

This money would make a big difference to households in our community struggling with the cost of living.

I encourage everyone who has reached state pension age to take ten minutes to check if they are eligible for this extra income. Just visit www.gov.uk/pension-credit.

More broadly, I encourage everyone to check what benefits and grants they may be entitled to. Our social security system is a shared safety net designed to help when you need it. In Scotland, we have unique benefits such as the groundbreaking Scottish Child Payment, which provides £26.70 per week per child.

An easy way to find out what you can get is using an online benefits calculator such as www.entitledto.co.uk.

I also know that some people may need a bit of extra help when applying for benefits. That is why Voiceability provides free and independent advocacy for anyone who identifies as disabled when they are applying for Social Security Scotland benefits.

I met with local staff earlier this year and the work they do is outstanding. You can reach them at 0300 303 1660.

While my office cannot apply on your behalf, or provide financial advice, we can point you to the most appropriate people to help. Please email me on elena.whitham.msp @parliament.scot or call 01290 319126.