Hardship caused by bedroom tax

But North Lanarkshire Council – which last year spent £2.3million on crisis grants tofamilies – warns it isn’t known how long the rescue funds will last.

Council finance chief Councillor Bob Burrows said: “I am utterly shocked at the desperate straits so many of our residents find themselves in because of welfare reform, benefit cuts and the bedroom tax.

“In this day and age it is simply appalling.

“Our aim is to support individuals and families from welfare to wellbeing using our network of internal and external partners, giving local residents access to other services which can assist them in the longer term.”

The typical grant is £85, covering basic food and heating costs.

Half the awards go to people in deprived local areas but there is no guarantee how long they will be available.