Stevenson Encourages Parents and Carers to Apply for Baby Payments

Parents in the North-East will be eligible for their first Pregnancy and Baby payments ahead of Christmas.

Banffshire and Buchan Coast MSP Stewart Stevenson has welcomed the announcement which means families can now apply for the new benefit.

It will offer low-income parents or carers £600 for their first child, £100 more than the DWP (Department of Work and Pension) Sure Start Maternity Grant which it replaces.

It also provides £300 for all subsequent children – meaning there is no cap on the number of children supported, unlike the current UK Government equivalent.

Those eligible who have had another child recently can also apply.

Leanne Adam, a pregnant mum expecting her first child said:

“This payment is going to help a lot because having a new-born baby is not cheap. We are both working and don’t qualify for many benefits but still on a low income.

“The Best Start Grant seems a lot more flexible than the Sure Start Maternity Grant, much more accessible to people who are working.”

Commenting, Stewart Stevenson MSP said:

“If you are about to or have recently had a baby – I would encourage you to check if you are eligible and apply.

“The Best Start Grant is different from the previous UK Government scheme. There is no cap on the number of children it can support, meaning babies born in the last six months who already have a big brother or sister will now be eligible for a payment, and the eligibility and window application have also been increased.

“This extra money could make a real difference for you and your baby at what is a wonderful time but one that we know can also be expensive.”