AN AYR politician has welcomed figures showing more than £3 million has been paid out through social security funds to support South Ayrshire families.

MSP Siobhian Brown praised the "Scottish Government’s fair and respectful approach to social security," after figures revealed £3,206,180 had been paid out via Best Start Grants and Best Start Foods Payments.

The payments are two of the 15 benefits administered by Social Security Scotland.

She said: "The SNP government is rightly proud of the different approach we have taken in Scotland to social security – one which, in stark contrast that of the DWP, is rooted in dignity, fairness and respect.

"As a result, families in Ayr, Prestwick and Troon have received a total of £3,206,180 in support since 2018 – despite the very limited powers of Scotland’s parliament and over a decade of Tory and now Labour austerity.

"I am pleased to see 6,515 families across Ayr, Prestwick and Troon are now receiving the support they need, which will make a real difference to the lives of children as we work towards the First Minister’s mission of eradicating child poverty."

According to Social Security Scotland, a total of £164,448,957 has been distributed across Scotland through these schemes since they were introduced.