Changes to a key Scottish Government benefit will see an
estimated 20,000 people able to access money to help with the
cost of food shopping for the first time.
Rule changes around eligibility for Best Start Foods come into
force today, (Monday Feb 26) extending eligibility by making it
easier to qualify.
Best Start Foods, which was paid to more than 46,000 people in
2022/23, is money every four weeks to help pay for healthy food
from pregnancy until a child turns three.
It’s delivered on a pre-paid chip and pin card which can be used
in most stores and online.
Before the changes which come into force today, it was paid to
people who receive qualifying benefits as long as their incomes
did not pass certain limits.
Those income thresholds have now been removed in a move which
means thousands more will be able to successfully apply for a
card.
Other rule changes have made it simpler for eligible young
parents to receive the benefit.
Social Justice Secretary said:
“This is an important day for the Scottish Government in terms of
our mission to tackle poverty and protect people from harm.
“In 2024-25 we are committing a record £6.3 billion for benefits
expenditure, providing support to over 1.2 million people.
“This is £1.1 billion more than the UK Government gives to the
Scottish Government for social security, demonstrating our
commitment to tackling poverty.
“Making this investment allows us to take measures like the one
which comes into force today - giving critical help with buying
healthy foods to those who need it most.
“It will further benefit the whole economy when cards are used
and the cash is spent.”
The changes were welcomed by charity Edinburgh Community Food Aid
Network.
Their Chief Executive Officer, Brenda Black said:
“The importance of nourishing food for both mother-to-be and
infant cannot be overstated: the first 1000 days of a
child’s life are crucial for growth, development, and long-term
health.
“We welcome the positive changes in 'Best Start Foods' to help
thousands of extra families in Scotland access a healthier diet.
“Edinburgh Community Food's team of skilled nutritionists
promotes Best Start Foods' within our communities, to improve and
sustain the health and wellbeing of future generations of Scots.”
