A charity coalition has called for politicians to radically simplify the welfare system with the launch of its own manifesto.

The Scottish Campaign on Welfare Reform (SCoWR) claims that the present benefits system is overly complex and forces people to “jump through hoops” to make a claim.

SCoWR is calling for an increase in the proportion of non means-tested financial support which, it said, is easier to administer and does not suffer the stigma often attached to means-tested support.

The group is supported by over 40 different Scottish organisations and charities, including Oxfam, Barnardo’s, Unison and the STUC.

John Dickie, spokesman for the Child Poverty Action Group, said: "There is no question that welfare reform is needed.

"The current system fails to tackle the real problems people face trying to get into work and too often makes people jump through impossible hoops to claim meagre benefits.

"Our manifesto challenges all those standing at the General Election to only support proposals that treat people with dignity and protect them from poverty."

Citizens Advice Scotland claimed it was clear that benefits services were being targeted by politicians looking to make spending cuts.

Chief executive Kaliani Lyle said: "We don't know who will be in power in a few weeks time but what is clear is that all parties are looking for cuts in spending, and that welfare services are very much in the firing line.

"This manifesto is all about challenging politicians of all parties to show us they too are committed to maintaining a fair welfare system for those sick, disabled and vulnerable people who depend on it."

According to the SCoWR manifesto, respect for human rights and dignity should be at the cornerstone of any changes to the welfare system.

Peter Kelly, director of the Poverty Alliance in Scotland, said: "Any party that wants to improve services will find that we will work constructively with them - and that includes reform where reform is sensible and where it benefits the people in need.

"But we will vigorously oppose any attempts to cut services, limit opportunities or heap blame on the most vulnerable in our society."