Local MSP for the Linlithgow Constituency, Fiona Hyslop, welcomes announcement that 3,880 families in West Lothian have benefitted from the introduction of the Scottish Child Payment, with £632,010 paid out to families in the area.
The most recent Scottish Government figures demonstrate how many families in West Lothian have benefitted from the support since its introduction in February to 30th June 2021.
So far, across Scotland 108,000 children have benefitted from the payment which provides eligible families with £10-a-week.
Fiona commented:
“Tackling child poverty is a national mission for the SNP Government, and I am pleased to hear that 3,880 families in West Lothian are being supported.
“The Scottish Child Payment has been described by charities as game-changing and we are seeing that difference across Scotland and it is fantastic to see it make such a difference to the lives of families in West Lothian too.
“Not only is the Scottish Child Payment giving low-income families extra support but coupled with other payments such as the Best Start Grant and Best Start Foods, eligible families could receive up to £5,200 extra by the time their child turns six.
“I would urge any families in West Lothian who have not yet applied to do so. It only takes 10-20 minutes and is available to all low-income families with children aged under 6. The payment will be made available to all children aged up to 15 by the end of 2022.
“In Scotland, we are building a social security system built on fairness, dignity and respect. Contrast that with the system at Westminster where the Tories are planning on cutting Universal Credit at a time when vulnerable families need it most.”
ENDS
Notes You can apply for the Scottish Child Payment at the following link: https://www.mygov.scot/scottish-child-payment/how-to-apply
