GRAEME ENCOURAGES MORE EARLY APPLICATIONS
8 January 2021
Graeme has welcomed news that tens of thousands of parents have been applying early for the new Scottish Child Payment – opening to parents of children under 6 on 15 February.
Social Security Scotland is taking applications ahead of the new benefit’s introduction to help manage demand. 56,000 applications were received between Monday 9 November and Sunday 3 January.
Those who apply before the start date will have their payments calculated from 15 February. Parents are encouraged to apply now to avoid losing out on any money.
The new benefit will give eligible families on tax credits or certain benefits an extra £40 every four weeks for each child under six. Scotland is the only part of the UK where this additional payment for families with young children will be available.
The Scottish Fiscal Commission have forecast that the payment could support up to 194,000 children this financial year.
Commenting, Graeme said:
“56,000 applications at this stage represents a fantastic response to this new welfare payment, described as ‘game-changing’ by organisations on the frontline of the fight against child poverty.
“At a time when COVID-19 continues to present enormous challenges and the pressure on families of additional restrictions, I know many parents in Angus and across Scotland will be struggling to find ten minutes to themselves.
“But I would strongly encourage people here in Angus to check their eligibility and fill out the simple application form – which could see you receive some additional money to ease the financial burden from the earliest possible date.
“The Scottish Child Payment is the most ambitious anti-poverty measure being pursued in the UK, and I am proud that the Scottish Government is able to introduce it early for families with under-6s – given almost 60% of children in poverty are in such a family.”
Paul Carberry, Action for Children Director for Scotland, said:
“Action for Children staff see the effects of child poverty every day and the impact it has on many of the children and families whom we support, care for and work with. We recognise that the impact of child poverty is not only felt in purely financial means but is also measured by children having an increase in poverty of opportunity. One simple act to help reduce child poverty is by putting money in the pockets of parents.
“The Scottish Child Payment can ease the struggle some families face in providing the basics and necessities of life. The impacts of poverty are profound for Scotland’s children, from poor mental and physical health and wellbeing to poor performance at school. The Scottish Child Payment will offer vital financial support for children, young people, and their families. It can give back choice and dignity. We urge all eligible families to apply for this.”
For those who apply before Monday 15 February, their payment will be calculated from Monday 15 February. For those who apply after Monday 15 February, their payment will be calculated from the date they apply.
Scottish Child Payment together with the three Best Start Grant payments and Best Start Foods could give families up to £5,200 by the time their first child turns six. People can apply by visiting mygov.scot/benefits or calling 0800 182 2222.
Scottish Child Payment is a new benefit and it is in addition to the UK wide Child Benefit. To get advice on what benefits may be available, parents and carers can access free confidential advice through Money Talk Team – with more information on parentclub.scot.
