Parents are being encouraged to apply for the Scottish Government’s Best Start Grant.

A one-off £250 payment is currently open to eligible families, with a child who was born between 1^st March 2015 and 29^th February 2016, who will be starting primary school later this year.

The School Age payment can be used for anything from a new pair of school shoes or arts and crafts materials for children.

The payment is part of the Scottish Government’s Best Start Grant, a package of three payments for families in receipt of eligible benefits – including Universal Credit and Housing Benefit – to help at key stages in a child’s life.

Click on this link for information and how to apply: Best Start Grant and Best Start Foods

Maree Todd SNP MSP and Minister for Children and Young People said:

“Covering the costs of a child starting school can be tough on family finances, especially in the current climate.

“The Scottish Government’s school age payment offers low income families, or those who receive support like Universal Credit, a £250 payment around the time children start at primary school.

“We’re absolutely determined that every child, regardless of circumstances, gets the best start in life. So in these unprecedented and difficult times, I’d encourage families across the Highlands & Islands to check what other financial support they may be eligible for too – such as school clothing grants or free school meals.”