A campaign has been launched to urge families to apply for a new benefit which would help around 8,400 children in West Dunbartonshire.
The new Scottish Government benefit will give eligible families and carers £40 every four weeks for each child under six. Full rollout to eligible families with children under 16 is planned for the end of 2022.
Dumbarton’s SNP candidate Toni Giugliano has this week launched a campaign to encourage local families to apply for the Scottish Child Payment amid fears many vulnerable children might be missing out.
He says estimated 8,400 children in 5,100 families across West Dunbartonshire are expected to benefit.
He added that statistics show a total of 1,285 local people applied for it up to the end of last year, with thousands more still eligible.
He commented: “I would strongly encourage families who haven’t yet applied to do so as soon as possible in order to receive this benefit that is unique to Scotland.
“The Scottish Child Payment has been described as ‘game-changing’ as it will make a difference to the lives of thousands of children across West Dunbartonshire – particularly at a time when many are struggling with the financial impact of the pandemic.
“Along with the Best Start Grant and other benefits rolled out by Social Security Scotland, the Scottish Child Payment is forming part of a benefits system built on dignity, fairness and respect, working for the people of Scotland, not against them.”
