On BBC’s The One Show, Chris Bavin, co-host of Eat Well For Less? had some useful tips for families struggling to cope with the cost of living crisis. Top of his list was an NHS Healthy Start card which can help thousands of people save money on their food bills.
With around half of eligible shoppers not taking up the offer, and the price of food rising at a vast rate, the 42-year-old pleaded with viewers to check whether it is something they are entitled to. He said: “It’s been going for a long time actually, it’s called Healthy Start.
“They used to be vouchers, now they’ve gone digital so you get a pre-loaded card and they put the money on there. So, in England, Wales and Northern Ireland it’s Healthy Start, in Scotland it’s Best Start.
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“I think it’s 46% or 50% of people eligible don’t claim it. So please go online, see if you’re eligible and if you are, claim it because it’s not a great deal but it is something and it goes towards fresh or tinned fruit and veg, milk and baby formula.”
As Bavin stated, the card can only be used to buy certain types of milk, infant formula and fruit and vegetables, although it is accepted by most supermarkets and local convenience stores. If you are more than 10 weeks pregnant or have a child under four, you may be entitled to Healthy Start.
A Healthy Start card will be sent with money on it, with the benefit added every four weeks. The card can also be used to collect Healthy Start vitamins, which support you during pregnancy and breastfeeding, and vitamin drops for babies and young children, suitable from birth to four years old.
All the details regarding a Healthy Start card can be found on the NHS website. The One Show airs Monday-Friday on BBC One at 7pm.
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