Scottish Child Payment is making a ’massive difference’

Scottish Child Payment is making a ’massive difference’

Shirley-Anne Somerville

New figures released this week have revealed that 326,255 children are actively benefiting from the Scottish Child Payment across the country.

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.”

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