For immediate release:

20,000 CHILDREN IN SOUTH LANARKSHIRE BENEFITTING FROM SCOTTISH CHILD PAYMENT

19,115 children in South Lanarkshire have benefitted from the Scottish Child Payment, according to the latest figures released by the Scottish Government – with £21,384,600 having been paid to families in the local authority area.

The payment of £25 per week, available to eligible children under the age of 16, is one of five family payments available from the Scottish Government which provide regular financial support to low-income families.

The Scottish Child Payment was introduced to combat child poverty – with the Child Poverty Action Group hailing the benefit as a “game-changer”.

The benefit, which is unique in the UK, is reaching 316,190 children across Scotland – an increase of more than 13,000 compared to 31 March 2023.

Rutherglen MSP Clare Haughey has praised the Scottish Child Payment and has urged people to check their eligibility.

Commenting, Ms Haughey said:

“The Scottish Child payment was designed to tackle child poverty head on, so it is great to see the  benefit providing real support to almost 20,000 children in South Lanarkshire – with over £20 million having been paid out to local families.

“I am conscious that, as we head into the winter months, and with the Westminster cost of living crisis continuing to affect households across South Lanarkshire, families will face even greater challenges with many struggling to make ends meet.

“The Scottish Child Payment will therefore be even more vital.

“Having increased the Scottish Child Payment by 150% since its introduction and expanded eligibility to under 16s, it is clear the Scottish Government is determined to use the powers it has to tackle child poverty and support Scotland’s most vulnerable families.

“I would encourage anyone who thinks they may be eligible to find out more and apply.”

Households could be eligible for the Scottish Child Payment if applicants or their partner are getting certain benefits or payments including Universal Credit or Working and Child Tax credits.

To apply or check eligibility, visit: https://www.mygov.scot/scottish-child-payment.

ENDS