Best Start Grant and Foods (Scotland)

What it is

Scotland's equivalent of the Sure Start Maternity Grant and Healthy Start scheme, but more generous. It has two parts: Best Start Grant (cash payments at key stages) and Best Start Foods (a prepaid card for healthy food).

Best Start Grant

Pregnancy and Baby Payment: £707.25 for your first child, or £353.65 for subsequent children (2025/26). Claim from 24 weeks pregnant up to 6 months after birth.

Early Learning Payment: £319.80 per child when your child is between 2 and 3.5 years old.

School Age Payment: £319.80 per child when your child would normally start Primary 1.

Best Start Foods

• £4.50 per week during pregnancy
• £9.00 per week from birth to 1 year
• £4.50 per week from 1 to 3 years

Who can get it

You or your partner must receive one of: Universal Credit, Child Tax Credit, Housing Benefit, income-based JSA, income-related ESA, Income Support, Pension Credit, or Working Tax Credit run-on. If you're under 18, you can apply regardless of benefits.

How to apply

Apply online at mygov.scot, by phone, or by post. Apply for Best Start Foods as soon as you know you're pregnant.

Key things to know

• Scotland's scheme is more generous than the rest of the UK equivalent
• You get three separate payments throughout your child's early years
• Report the birth of your baby within 4 months to keep receiving Best Start Foods