Best Start Scotland
Last updated: 06/04/2023
Best Start Grant helps with the costs when you have a baby. There is also help when your child starts nursery and school.
The Best Start Grant includes 3 different payments:
- Best Start Pregnancy and Baby Payment – to help with the costs of pregnancy or having a new baby. Families will receive £707.25 from 25th week of pregnancy to 6 months after the birth of their first child and £353.65 on the birth of any following children.
- Best Start Early Learning Payment – a payment of £294.70 when your child starts nursery. If you did not get the Pregnancy and Baby Payment you can still apply for this part.
- Best Start School Age Payment – a further payment of £294.70 to help with the additional costs when your child reaches school age.
You may also get help to buy food for you and your baby from Best Start Foods.
Baby Box
Parents of all new-born babies in Scotland can receive a Baby Box. The box contains items you will need for your baby. The box itself can be used as a safe place for your baby to sleep.
Your midwife will fill in a Baby Box registration card at your 18 – 20 or 28 week anti-natal appointment. The box will be delivered to you 4 weeks before your baby’s due date.
