A SEVERELY disabled woman is more than £950 better off per month after accessing help through a Borders scheme, according to a report.

The woman’s story was part of papers put to Scottish Borders Council’s (SBC) executive committee before a meeting on Tuesday.

The report contains case studies outlining examples where people have received support through the Warm and Well Borders scheme.

The woman, who was struggling with heating bills, was made aware of a Facebook post by Roxburgh & Berwickshire Citizens Advice Bureau asking those struggling to contact the service for help.

Due to her condition, the woman spent large portions of time in the house resulting in higher fuel bills, according to the report.

She was assisted by an adviser from the Warm and Well scheme to check the benefits she was entitled to, including Universal Credit and Personal Independence Payment.

Following the adviser’s assistance, the woman is now £951 better off per month and is “no longer having to make a choice between eating or keeping warm”.

The executive committee backed plans for £330,000 allocated to the council by the Scottish Government to support those experiencing financial hardship during the coronavirus pandemic.

The proposals included a 12-month extension to the Warm and Well Borders scheme.

During the meeting, Tweeddale East councillor Robin Tatler, SBC’s executive member for community development and localities, said the extra funding was “welcome news”.

“We all know how difficult life is for some people out there at the moment because of a whole range of issues caused by COVID-19 and the cost of living,” he said. “It’s a relatively small amount of money but we can achieve a huge amount.”

Mr Tatler also called on those in need of help to come forward.

Galashiels councillor Euan Jardine, of the Conservatives, echoed Mr Tatler’s call, adding that the winter months can be tougher.

Meanwhile, Mid Berwickshire councillor Mark Rowley, also of the Conservatives, hailed the work between the council and its partners, including the Citizens Advice Bureau and Registered Social Landlords.

“If we continue this joined up, collaborative approach across the Borders we will get more bang for our buck,” he said.