A total of 205 families in Orkney have benefitted from the introduction of the Scottish Child Payment, with 720 payments totalling £37,510 paid out to families in the area.

The most recent Scottish Government figures demonstrate how many families in Orkney have benefitted from the support since its introduction in February to 30^th June 2021.

So far, across Scotland 108,000 children have benefitted from the payment which provides eligible families with £10-a-week.

Commenting, SNP Highlands and Islands MSP Emma Roddick said:

“The Scottish Child Payment has been described by charities as game-changing and we are seeing that difference across Scotland and it is fantastic to see it make such a difference to the lives of families in Orkney too.

“Not only is the Scottish Child Payment giving low-income families extra support, but coupled with other payments such as the Best Start Grant and Best Start Foods, eligible families could receive up to £5,200 extra by the time their child turns six.

“I would urge any families in Orkney who have not yet applied to do so.

“In Scotland, we are building a social security system built on fairness, dignity and respect. Contrast that with the system at Westminster where the Tories are planning on cutting Universal Credit at a time when vulnerable families need it most.”