Concerns are growing over major changes to benefit payments next month.

The roll-out of universal credit begins on November 22, with six benefits and tax credits being replaced with a single monthly payment.

North Ayrshire Council is asking the UK Government to halt the roll-out process as this change could make managing money very challenging for some.

Income support, income-based jobseekers allowance, housing benefit, income-related employment and support allowance, working tax credit and child tax credit will be replaced by a new single payment.

North Ayrshire Council executive director Laura Friel said: "These changes were announced by the UK Government some time ago.

"However, we are now at the stage where many more people will soon be switching over to universal credit and it's important they know how the changes will affect them and what they need to do.

"For example, people will need to claim universal credit online and payments will become monthly - this is a big change for those in receipt of benefits and might make managing your money more challenging."

She added: "We don't want anyone to miss out on what they are entitled to so, if they are affected by the upcoming changes, I would urge them to find out as much as possible about the changes as soon as possible."

For those out of work, universal credit will provide a single payment each month.

In return for that payment, the DWP will expect universal credit claimants to seek work.