In April, Scotland will see a rise in many payments issued by Social Security Scotland, to help families as the cost of living continues to soar, with increases ranging from a 3.1% to 100%.

The most notable of these is the Scottish Child Payment which after being introduced in February 2021 at the rate of £10 per week for all eligible children under 6, is now being doubled to £20 per week and will later in the year be extended to all eligible children under the age of 16. 

A further 8 benefits will see a 6% rise including; Best Start Grants (Pregnancy and Baby 1st Child, Subsequent Child & Extra payment for Twins/triplets, Early Learning and School-Age payments), Child Winter Heating Assistance, Funeral Support payments, Job Start payments and last but not least the Young Carer Grant (and Carers Allowance supplement).

The new Child Disability and Adult Disability payments will also see an increase of 3.1% in line with Disabilty Living Allowance and Personal Independence Payments, to ensure that individuals, who haven't yet been transferred over to the new Scottish system, aren't paid less. 

You can find out more about the new rates by visiting Social Security Scotland

If you would like to apply for one of these benefits or find out if you are eligible you can get in contact with Social Security Scotland in a variety of ways by either: