The Scottish Child Payment is unique to Scotland and provides financial support for families, helping with the costs of caring for a child. It is a monthly payment currently worth £27.15 a week for every eligible child that a parent or carer looks after who is under 16 years of age. 

Michelle, a mother of three from Edinburgh, has shared the impact Scottish Child Payment is having on her daughter’s life. 

She said: “One of my daughters has autism and ADHD, and Scottish Child Payment allows me to do activities that calm her down and make her happy and that makes a massive difference.

“Scottish Child Payment is something that helps you and helps your children when you’re in a difficult financial situation. I think there’s sometimes a stigma around applying for it, especially as a single mother, but I highly recommend that those who have yet to apply for it do so.”

Social justice secretary Shirley-Anne Somerville added: “Eradicating child poverty is the Scottish Government’s top priority and a national mission.

“These figures show that over 326,000 children were benefiting from Scottish Child Payment as of 31 March 2025. Since the benefit launched, we have paid more than £1.1 billion in vital support.

“This payment is actively improving the lives of hundreds of thousands of children in Scotland – helping their families to access essentials and experiences they might otherwise miss out on because they live on a low income.

“This year, we forecast a further £471 million investment, ensuring that this support continues to reach families and children who need it. I urge people who are thinking of applying for financial support, to check their eligibility and start their application today.”