More than £829 million of social security payments have been paid out to over 329,000 children in Scotland.

Every week, a sum of £26.70 is provided to families, a contribution that has totalled over £677 million since the Scottish Child Payment's launch.

The benefit, along with three Best Start Grants and Best Start Foods, have provided a total exceeding £829 million in vital financial support at important stages of a child’s life.

The financial support does not have limitations on the number of eligible children within a family who can receive the payments.

Newly released survey results indicate that most families utilised these payments to fund social or educational opportunities and purchase milk and healthy food for their children.

Additionally, more than 90% of respondents found the application process efficient and clear.

Shirley-Anne Somerville, social justice secretary, said: "As the First Minister has set out, eradicating child poverty is the number one priority for the Scottish Government."

"Scottish Child Payment plays a key part in that mission.

"Together with our Best Start Grant and Best Start Foods payments, this package of financial support, which is worth almost £25,000 per child by the time their child turns 16, is helping to make sure all children in Scotland get the best start in life."

"We have provided over £829 million to help people raise their families, putting money into the pockets of people who need it most.

“This crucial cash is available as soon expectant parents know they are pregnant all the way through to their child starting nursery, then going to primary and secondary school and helps them cover costs of caring for their children.

“We know from our recent research that families say the application process is clear and doesn’t take too long to apply. So I would urge families to apply for our package of five family payments and get the money they are entitled to.”