Best Start Foods is a payment in Scotland of up to £42.40 every four weeks which helps to buy healthy foods. This week Scottish Government Social Justice Secretary, Shirley-Anne Somerville, encouraged people who hold the card to check the balance they have on it.

She said:

“We are determined to eradicate child poverty and reduce health inequalities in Scotland and Best Start Foods, part of the five family payments, is part of a package to support this. 

“We want to make sure people know about, and get, all the financial help they are entitled to. This is particularly relevant during the continuing cost of living crisis. 

“If cards are lost, or people are unsure of how to use them, support is available to help them use their card. The card works the same as any chip and pin card and can be used in many supermarkets, small shops and online.   

“The Scottish Government removed income limits earlier this year, so I would also urge anyone who has not yet applied for Best Start Foods to check if they are eligible.” 

Best Start Foods is paid every 4 weeks. The payments are:

• £21.20 during pregnancy (you’ll get the same amount whether you’re having one or more babies)
• £42.40 for each child from birth until they’re one year old
• £21.20 for each child aged between one and 3 years old

If your baby’s born early, you’ll get the higher amount from birth until 1 year after the due date.

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

Click on this link to find out how to use your card: Best Start Foods Card

Since its launch in 2019, over £57 million has been paid to over 86,000 parents and carers.