New research out today shows that a staggering 41% of Brits believe people claiming benefits need to help themselves and stop relying on the state. More socking is that 36% of those earning less then £15,000 a year believe the same!

Elizabeth Finn Care's Turn2us service commissioned the research to investigate the perception Britain has of people who are in receipt of welfare benefits.

13% of low income earners say they would rather cut back on food than have to claim welfare benefits - this is despite 59% saying they that welfare benefits exist to help the most vulnerable in society.

Elizabeth Finn Care is urging anyone who is entitled to welfare benefits to make sure they claim and not feel ashamed.

For more info log onto www.turn2us.org.uk

Jennifer