The families of approximately 140,000 children will receive additional financial support this winter to help amid the cost of living crisis.
Following a £18.9 million investment from the Scottish Government, First Minister Nicola Sturgeon confirmed in October that Scottish Child Payment Bridging Payments would double in December from £130 to £260.
As reported by the Daily Record, Bridging Payments were launched in 2021 prior to the extension of the Scottish Child Payment to 6-15 year olds.
READ MORE — Martin Lewis issues urgent Christmas travel advice and how to save money
The final quarterly Bridging Payment will be paid into bank account before schools break up for Christmas on December 22.
Through the Bridging Payment, households may get as much as £650 for each eligible child this year. Every child who is registered to get free school meals as a result of low family income will receive the money automatically.
The First Minister previously stated: “Rather than looking forward to Christmas, too many families will be dreading it because they don’t know if they can afford to heat their homes or even pay for food.
“As part of our help to the poorest families over last year and this, ahead of rolling out the Scottish Child Payment to under 16s, we have made quarterly Bridging Payments of £130 to children and young people in receipt of Free School Meals.
“I am delighted that the Scottish Government will double the December Payment from £130 to £260.
“That will help put food on the Christmas table for families of 145,000 children and young people. I don’t pretend it will make all of their worries go away - no government with our limited powers can ever do that. But I hope this investment of almost £20 million will bring a bit of Christmas cheer to those who need it most.”
How to get £260 December Bridging Payment
The money will be issued to households automatically if they have registered for free school meals. If you believe your family qualifies for the free meals, you can register now to get the £260 December boost.
More information can be found on The City of Edinburgh Council website.
READ MORE —
Most 'beautiful' 2022 baby names according to science confirmed
Pensioners to get £300 DWP cost of living winter boost in next few weeks
Mum slams 'spectacularly rude' friend over 'offensive' birthday present mishap
DWP boss says decision whether to increase benefits will be mid-November at earliest
Cheapest Edinburgh Airport November flights under £30 including Spain and France
