Applications for school age payment close on 28th February
Stirling MSP Bruce Crawford and local councillor Evely Tweed have encouraged eligible families in Stirling to apply for the SNP Government’s School Age Payment before applications close on 28 February.
Parents who have deferred their child’s entry to school from August 2020 to August 2021, or those homeschooling, must still apply before the 28 February closing date or they will lose out on their payment.
The payment is part of the SNP Government’s Best Start Grant, a package of three payments for families who get tax credits or certain benefits – including Universal Credit, Income Support and Housing Benefit – to help at key stages in a child’s life.
Bruce Crawford MSP said:
‘As we approach the application deadline for the School Age Payment, I want to encourage eligible families in Stirling who have not yet applied to get their applications in before the end of the month.
‘Additionally, parents who weren’t eligible when the payment opened in June but whose circumstances have changed may now be eligible for this money – which can be used for things like clothes and home-schooling materials, or anything else you need for your child.
‘Eligible people can also apply for the new Scottish Child Payment at the same time – this is an extra £40 every 4 weeks for children under 6.
‘The pandemic has hit households hard, and this SNP Government is determined to ensure children can get the best start in life, and families across the country receive all the support they are entitled to.’
Local councillor Evelyn Tweed said:
‘Families and households right across Stirling have been affected by the on-going pandemic, and it’s only right they receive the benefits to which they’re entitled. Poverty alleviation will always pay dividends for us all in the long-term. This announcement demonstrates just how the Scottish Government continues to utilise their albeit limited powers over social security policy to protect Scotland’s vulnerable.’
Notes:
Parents can find out more and apply at www.mygov.scot/beststart
