New child payments scheme launched early
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PARENTS are being encouraged to apply for the new Scottish Child Payment which has been opened early to the public.
Banffshire and Buchan Coast MSP Stewart Stevenson is urging constituents to apply for the payment which ahead of its introduction to help manage expected demand.
The new benefit will give eligible families on low incomes with children under 16-years-old an extra £10 per week for each child.
It had been for full roll-out by the end of 2022, but Scottish Government Ministers have now prioritised the early introduction for children under the age of six with payments to begin from early 2021.
Mr Stevenson said: “This is an ambitious anti-poverty measure with the Scottish Government leading the way.
“I am delighted an earlier payment will be introduced to help support families with younger children ahead of the full roll-out.
“I would urge all constituents who may be eligible to apply now as we know the coronavirus pandemic and its economic impact has made the need far greater.”
Scotland is the only part of the UK where this additional payment for families with young children will be available.
The payment could support up to 194,000 children this financial year and the payment will be made every four weeks.
