955 children in the Western Isles have benefitted from the Scottish Child Payment, according to the latest figures released by the Scottish Government - with £1,043,130 having been paid to families across the islands.
The payment of £25 per week, available to eligible children under the age of 16, is one of five family payments available from the Scottish Government which provide regular financial support to low income families.
The Scottish Child Payment is designed to combat child poverty and support families across Scotland, with 316,190 children across Scotland having now received £352,690,935 since the benefit was launched.
Following its introduction in February 2021, the payment is the most ambitious anti-poverty measure to be implemented in the UK. It has been hailed as a “game-changer” in tackling child poverty by the Child Poverty Action Group and described as a “lifesaver" by parents.
Commenting, SNP MSP for Na h-Eileanan an Iar, Alasdair Allan, said:
“The Scottish Child payment was designed to tackle child poverty head on, so it is great to see the SNP’s benefit providing tangible support to low-income families with children in the Western Isles.
“I am conscious that, as we head into the winter months, and with the Tory-made cost of living crisis continuing to affect households across the Western Isles, families will face even greater challenges, with many struggling to make ends meet. The Scottish Child Payment will therefore be even more vital.
“Having increased the Scottish Child Payment by 150% since its introduction and expanded eligibility to under 16s, it is clear the Scottish Government is determined to use the powers it has to tackle child poverty and support Scotland’s most vulnerable families.
“The profound impact of the Scottish Child Payment, in the face of both Westminster parties' pursuit of cruel policies and cuts, perfectly demonstrates the need for Scotland to have the full welfare and tax powers of an independent country. Only this way can we build a fairer and more prosperous country."
