The Chancellor’s increase in pensions and benefits will not help anyone over the winter and people face an even bigger shock in the spring, it has been warned.

Jeremy Hunt announced rises roughly in line with inflation for the minimum wage, Universal Credit and pensions, in his Autumn Statement.

But the money will not be received until April - leading to fears that people face a 'long cold winter'.

READ MORE: Autumn Statement: What it means for wages, benefits and pensions

Citizens Advice Scotland warned benefit levels have been inadequate before the cost-of-living crisis made it worse.

Derek Mitchell, Citizens Advice Scotland chief executive, said: “Some of the measures announced today are welcome and very much needed, however the key thing is that the support will not arrive until next year, so the most vulnerable face a long and cold winter of worry and anxiety.

“The cost-of-living crisis is forcing people to make impossible choices in spending. Across the CAB network we see a frightening link between people struggling with energy bills and food insecurity.

“That is why it is the right decision to boost benefits by inflation, and frankly there shouldn’t have been a debate around it at all. The alternative was real terms cuts to the incomes of the poorest at a time when the price of food and energy are soaring.

“Cost of living payments to those on means-tested benefits, pensioners and the disabled are also welcome, but begs the question if social security levels are adequate in the first place. Our evidence suggest they are not."

READ MORE: Autumn Statement: Hunt could have gone further to help poorest

Mr Mitchell warned that by the time the payments are increased the situation facing millions will have worsened considerably.

He added: “Even with the further cap on energy prices people will come through a harsh winter and then face a shock on the spring as prices go up significantly.

“Citizens Advice Bureaux are on the frontline of this crisis and we would encourage anyone worried about money and bills to seek advice. We are for everyone regardless of background or circumstance and we don’t judge, we just help.”