The Scottish Child payment increases today by £5 a week.

The weekly payment, which is available for more than 100,000 children in Scotland, will go up from £20 to £25.

Eligibility for the payment has also been extended to children up to 16 who qualify.

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The value of the Scottish Child Payment has increased from £10 a week when introduced in February 2021, when children under 6 were eligible.

By extending the age to 16, another 300,000 children across the country will be eligible.

Nicola Sturgeon, First Minister, said: “This is an important day for many families across Scotland as we make significant extra financial support available to tackle child poverty. The Scottish Child Payment is unique to Scotland and is the most ambitious child poverty reduction measure in the UK.

“At a time when the cost of living crisis is causing significant hardship for many families, this increased payment of £1300 per eligible child is even more vital, and the age extension means that it is now available to many more children.

“We want to make sure that everyone gets the help available to them. Parents or carers who are on universal credit or other benefits and who have children under 16 should check through Social Security Scotland if they are eligible.”

The increase and extension has been welcomed by anti-poverty campaigners

John Dickie, Director of Child Poverty Action Group in Scotland, said:

“The roll-out of the Scottish Child Payment to over fives and the increase in its value to £25 a week marks a hugely welcome day for struggling families across Scotland and a real step on the road toward ending child poverty.

“This is a significant and uniquely Scottish boost to family incomes at a time when it is needed more than ever. It’s now vital that we all spread the word as widely as possible and ensure that all eligible families apply and every child that is entitled benefits.”