Adding up benefits in Southland

District and Gore remaining relatively static.

However, with the supported living benefit there was an increase from 1609 in September 2013 to 1786 in March 2018.

The trend was observed across every age group, although it was highest within the 55-64 years category.

Ministry of Social Development regional director southern Sue Rissman said the trends were reflective of what was happening at a national level.

Rissman said the increased use of the supported living benefit was being influenced by the aging of the New Zealand population, with the demographic changes also impacting New Zealand Super.

In the case of sole parent support benefit numbers, Rissman said there were a variety of reasons for the downward trend.

These included more support for sole parents to keep them in work and a trend towards lower fertility rates for 15-24 year olds.

Invercargill Salvation Army corp officer captain Annette Bray said welfare needs were changing in the region.

The needs are changing more than getting better or worse.

Our clients are coming to us with more complex needs, wanting help in multiple areas.

Bray said the underlying issue for most was financial, with people struggling to pay bills and deal with rent increases.

Bray said housing was a particular area of need, with many people struggling to find affordable housing or accommodation – with a limited number of houses available for rent.