THE DWP says it “values” veterans – after a Scottish Government minister said some are left “suicidal” by Universal Credit (UC).

Veterans Minister Graeme Dey says “shocking and tragic” cases reported by charities supporting former fighters reveal the suffering caused by changes to benefits as more people are placed onto the six-in-one payment system.

Aimed at cutting the UK welfare bill, it is already mired in controversy due to five-week waiting periods for initial payments for claimants, as well as issues with payments to parents.

Now, in a letter to UK Work and Pensions Secretary Amber Rudd and Tobias Ellwood, Minister for Defence People and Veterans, Dey says three different organisations – Erskine, Blesma and Scotland’s Bravest Manufacturing Company – have revealed the struggles caused to ex-servicemen and women.

Stating that they are “all extremely concerned about the serious impact” on clients, Dey urges the ministers to bring in dedicated support for the “vulnerable” group, stating: “The lack of dedicated support for veterans and the in-built inflexibility within UC has been a contributing factor in several shocking and tragic case studies, and the veterans’ charities have reported that there are cases where veterans have been left suicidal.

“The charities have gone above and beyond their remits to support these individuals but they are concerned about what the future holds as many more veterans migrate on to UC as a result of a change in circumstances.”

READ MORE: Mhairi Black: Independence has never looked more attractive

Dey says the online application process adds to problems for some of those affected, stating: “The charities have indicated that there is evidence to suggest that in some cases veterans have poorer literacy skills and there is a strong correlation between poor literacy, poor financial capability and poor digital skills.

“This is compounded by the fact that they may also be suffering from physical disabilities or mental illness.

“Veterans seeking to adjust to civilian life are more likely to undergo changes of circumstances as they resettle and the natural migration to UC that this will result in risks causing additional upheaval for them at a time when they most need support.

“This is also likely to result in a reduced income as those migrating naturally will not be eligible to receive transitional protection.”

Erskine was unable to comment yesterday, while neither Blesma nor Scotland’s Bravest Manufacturing Company responded to an approach by The National.

But the DWP said: “We value our armed services and veterans. Universal Credit provides veterans and their families with a range of specialised support through the Armed Forces Covenant, there is an armed forces champion in every district and Jobcentre staff work closely with charities, such as the Royal British Legion.”