A TULLIBODY woman has been given a community payback order after admitting to having claimed over £3000 of unentitled benefits.

Louise Young (25), of Newmills, pleaded guilty to the offence at Alloa Sheriff Court last month and appeared again on Thursday (20 November) for sentencing.

Depute fiscal Marie-Claire Chaffey told the court that Young had failed to notify the Department of Work and Pensions of a change in her circumstances, regarding receipt of child benefit.

She said: “Following an anonymous tip, it was discovered that she was no longer in custody of her three small children, despite continuing to claim social support income.” Mrs Chaffey added that between April 2013 and February 2014, Young received a total of £3223.50 to which she was not entitled.

Stewart Robertson, defending, said his client accepted her actions were wrong but that she had previously been in an abusive relationship.

Sheriff David Mackie, presiding, said: “The court recognises that you were in difficult circumstances.

“I also believe you now have your children back with you, which is a cause for celebration.

“However, you recognise that what you have done was wrong and you still must face punishment.

“This will take the form of unpaid work. If you fail to carry it out, this case will be recalled before the court.” Sheriff Mackie ordered Young to undertake 160 hours of unpaid work, reduced from 240 hours, over the next 12 months.