Children in Highland Perthshire will be among more than 400,00 to benefit from the increase in the Scottish Child Payment, which came into effect this week.
The increase sees not only the payment rise from £10 per week to £25 but it also sees the scheme extend to include eligible children up to the age of 16.
First Minister Nicola Sturgeon today encouraged all eligible families to apply on a visit to Golfhill Primary and Whitehill Secondary schools at their shared campus in Dennistoun, Glasgow saying: “This is an important day for many families across Scotland as we make significant extra financial support available to tackle child poverty. The Scottish Child Payment is unique to Scotland and is the most ambitious child poverty reduction measure in the UK.
“At a time when the cost-of-living crisis is causing significant hardship for many families, this increased payment of £1300 per eligible child is even more vital, and the age extension means that it is now available to many more children.
“We want to make sure that everyone gets the help available to them. Parents or carers who are on universal credit or other benefits and who have children under 16 should check through Social Security Scotland if they are eligible.”
Around 104,000 children already receive the payment which will automatically increase, with the extension forecast to benefit a further 300,000 eligible children across the country.
John Dickie, Director of Child Poverty Action Group in Scotland, said: “The roll-out of the Scottish Child Payment to over fives and the increase in its value to £25 a week marks a hugely welcome day for struggling families across Scotland and a real step on the road toward ending child poverty.
“This is a significant and uniquely Scottish boost to family incomes at a time when it is needed more than ever. It’s now vital that we all spread the word as widely as possible and ensure that all eligible families apply and every child that is entitled benefits.”
More information about the Scottish Child Payment and how to apply can be found at https://www.mygov.scot/scottish-child-payment