Eligible Fife families encouraged to apply for new Scottish Child Payment

Fifers are being encouraged to apply for the new Scottish Child Payment - which has been introduced by the Scottish Government.

Eligible families can receive £40 every four weeks for each child under six, through the new scheme.

Payments are due to start at the end of this month.

Jenny Gilruth, Mid Fife and Glenrothes MSP, said: "The introduction of the Scottish Child Payment will be a welcome boost for families across Fife and I would urge anyone who hasn’t applied to do so as soon as they can so they can 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 Scotland."

Laura Millar, the interim strategic manager of charity Fife Gingerbread, said: "The Scottish Child Payment is available to eligible families for each child under six years.

"We know that over the last 12 months that all families have experienced an increase in essential costs such as food and household bills. This is a clear commitment to supporting families in need to overcome the challenge of living on a low income.

"We hope that all eligible families in Fife apply and reach out to the many support services that exist if they need our support to do so.

"Over half of families in Scotland who are entitled haven’t applied yet, and there is a joint responsibility for us all to encourage our friends, family and neighbours to check if they are eligible.

"This money could make all the difference to creating better todays and brighter tomorrows for Fife’s lone parents and families in need."