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Scotland to Increase Child Payment in April 2026

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  Published in Politics and Government on Saturday, February 21st 2026 at 18:38 GMT by Daily Record
      Locales: Scotland, UNITED KINGDOM

Edinburgh, Scotland - February 21st, 2026 - Families across Scotland are poised to receive a much-needed financial boost in April with a planned increase to the Scottish Child Payment (SCP). This vital program, designed to tackle child poverty and support low-income households, is set to see its payment amount rise, though the exact figure remains unconfirmed as of today. This article details everything families need to know about the SCP, the upcoming changes, eligibility criteria, and how to apply.

The Growing Need for Child Support

The rising cost of living has put immense pressure on families nationwide, and Scotland is no exception. From food prices to energy bills and childcare costs, raising a child has become increasingly expensive. The Scottish Child Payment was introduced to directly address these financial challenges, providing regular, targeted support to those who need it most. Official statistics released last month show a continued, albeit slow, rise in child poverty rates, emphasizing the critical role of initiatives like the SCP.

Understanding the Scottish Child Payment

Currently, the SCP provides GBP25 per week for each eligible child under the age of 16. This regular payment is made directly into the bank account of the eligible parent or guardian, typically twice a month. While seemingly modest, this contribution can make a significant difference in covering essential costs such as groceries, clothing, school supplies, and extracurricular activities. The Scottish government emphasizes that the SCP is not means-tested against household wealth, focusing instead on earned income and receipt of qualifying benefits.

What's Changing in April 2026?

While the precise amount of the increase is yet to be officially announced, sources within the Scottish government have indicated that the uplift will be substantial, reflecting the ongoing commitment to tackling child poverty and mitigating the effects of inflation. The government has repeatedly stated its aim to ensure the payment keeps pace with the rising cost of living and provides meaningful support to families. Many advocacy groups are hoping for an increase that at least matches the projected inflation rate for 2026. Speculation currently suggests a potential increase of between 10% and 20%, which would bring the weekly payment to between GBP27.50 and GBP30.

Who Qualifies for the Scottish Child Payment? The eligibility criteria are relatively straightforward, but require careful review. Generally, to qualify for the SCP, you must meet the following criteria:

• Residency: You must be living with the child in Scotland.
• Child's Age: The child must be under 16 years of age.
• Benefit Eligibility: You must be receiving one of the following benefits:
  • Universal Credit
  • Child Tax Credit
  • Income Support
  • Pension Credit
  • Working Tax Credit
  • Housing Benefit
• Other Considerations: Specific rules apply for children whose parents are jointly responsible, or for those in kinship care arrangements.

It's important to note that even if you're currently receiving one of these benefits, you still need to apply for the Scottish Child Payment to begin receiving the additional financial support.

How to Apply for the Scottish Child Payment

The application process is entirely digital and can be completed through the MyGovScot website ([ https://www.mygov.scot/ ]). The application requires detailed information about your income, residency, and the child(ren) for whom you are applying. Applicants will need to provide their National Insurance number and bank details. The online application system is designed to be user-friendly, with help and guidance available throughout the process. Applicants can also access telephone support if they encounter difficulties. Processing times can vary, but the Scottish government aims to process applications within 4-6 weeks.

Looking Ahead: The Future of the SCP

The Scottish Child Payment represents a significant investment in the future of Scotland's children. The upcoming increase in April 2026 is a welcome step, but ongoing monitoring and adjustments will be crucial to ensure the payment continues to effectively address child poverty and support families in need. Advocacy groups are calling for the SCP to be expanded further, including raising the age limit to 18 and increasing the payment amount in line with inflation. The Scottish government has indicated its commitment to a long-term approach to tackling child poverty, with the SCP playing a central role in its strategy.