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Families across Scotland may be able to receive Best Start Grant payments to help ease the financial pressure many may be experiencing due to the coronavirus pandemic.

The Best Start Grant payments give financial support to families on lower incomes during the key stages in a child’s life.

People can apply for the Pregnancy and Baby Payment and Early Learning Payment now, whilst the application window for School Age Payment opens in June.

Social Security Scotland is calling on families who are receiving a DWP benefit to check if they are entitled to this extra help and encouraging those who are not already in receipt of a DWP benefit to check if they are eligible for financial support.

Social Security Scotland Chief Executive David Wallace said: “We know that during this difficult time, many families will require extra financial support.

“We want to get the message out there that if you think you qualify for a DWP benefit, you may also be eligible for a payment from Social Security Scotland. There's no need to wait for a decision from the DWP before applying, we can check with them later.

“We understand that due to COVID-19, some parents may have missed deadlines to apply for certain payments and we understand that this was unavoidable. That is why we have relaxed our timescales and are now accepting late applications from those affected – ensuring families get the money they are entitled to."

For more information and to apply visit mygov.scot/best-start-grant

If the pandemic has had an impact on your family’s finances and you need further information on what is available you can call free on 0800 028 1456 or visit cas.org.uk for free confidential support.