Social Security Scotland has opened new applications for the Best Start Food payment, which replaces the UK Government’s Healthy Start Vouchers in Scotland.

The payment provides low income families on certain benefits with £17 every 4 weeks during pregnancy, and for every child under 3 years old, to spend on a range of healthy foods. This payment increases to £34 for children under one year old.

To provide a more convenient way of buying healthy foods Social Security Scotland have replaced the previous paper vouchers with a new payment card. The new card can be used in most shops selling food that take card payments.

People already receiving Healthy Start Vouchers will continue to do so at this stage. When it is time for them to migrate to Best Start Foods, Social Security Scotland will contact them directly explaining the changes and inviting them to apply for the new Best Start Food payment.

To apply, please contact Social Security Scotland by phone: 0800 182 2222, or visit the mygov.scot website.

For further information, contact Social Security Scotland by email: localdelivery@socialsecurity.gov.scot

Alternatively, view or download the Best Foods Fact Sheet.