The new Scottish Child Payment – described as a “game-changer” in the fight to tackle child poverty – will open early for applications this month.
Shotts MSP Alex Neil has encouraged parents and carers who are eligible to apply now so that the Scottish Government can process and start making payments as quickly as possible once the benefit starts in February next year.
The Scottish Government has prioritised the early introduction of the new benefit, which will provide eligible families on low incomes with a child under six an extra £10 per week for each child.
Mr Neil said: “The Scottish Child Payment is an ambitious, game-changing new benefit which will directly tackle child poverty in North Lanarkshire and across Scotland.
“This support is needed more than ever, and its early introduction for under sixes – almost two years ahead of the original commitment for a new payment – will be a lifeline for so many families in Shotts.”
