Rule changes extend eligibility for help with food shopping

Keith Brown MSP, Member of the Scottish Parliament for the Clackmannanshire & Dunblane constituency, has highlighted changes that have been made to the eligibility to a key Scottish Government benefit which will see an estimated 20,000 people able to access money to help with the cost of food shopping for the first time.

Speaking this afternoon, Keith said:

“With well over half a million pounds having been paid out to people in my constituency since the Best Start Foods payment was introduced by the Scottish Government in 2019, I am delighted to highlight the news that these payments have now been opened up for more people to access.

“Rule changes around eligibility for Best Start Foods came into force this week, extending eligibility and making it easier to qualify.

“Best Start Foods is money provided every four weeks to help pay for healthy food from pregnancy until a child turns three. It is delivered on a pre-paid chip and pin card which can be used in most stores and online.

“Previously, this money was paid to people who receive qualifying benefits as long as their incomes did not pass certain limits.  Those income thresholds have now been removed in a move which means thousands more will be able to successfully apply for a card.

“Other rule changes have made it simpler for eligible young parents to receive the benefit.

“In 2024-25 the Scottish Government are committing a record £6.3 billion for benefits expenditure, providing support to over 1.2 million people.  This is £1.1 billion more than the UK Government gives to the Scottish Government for social security, demonstrating the SNP’s firm commitment to tackling poverty.”

“This kind of vital support for families in my Clackmannanshire & Dunblane constituency is another indication of what would be possible with full control over social security – it’s time for Scotland to have the full powers of an independent nation so that we can build a fairer, more prosperous country.”