New research has found that the SNP's Scottish Child Payment is contributing to reducing child poverty in Scotland - with one parent describing it as a “lifesaver.”
The interim evaluation by Ipsos Mori looked at the impact of the new benefit introduced in Scotland by the SNP in February 2021. At the time it was described as 'an absolute game changer in the fight to end child poverty' by anti-poverty charities.
The payment, which was doubled by the SNP Government in April, currently provides families with £20 per week for every child under the age of six years old. By the end of the year, the payment will further increased to £25 per child per week, whilst also becoming available for children up to 16.
The findings of this latest evaluation show:
The Scottish Child Payment and its eligibility criteria are well understood
The Scottish Child Payment has an uptake of 77% already
The application process is clear and easy
Applications are processed in a timely manner
Awareness is raised about other forms of support
Clients feel they have been treated with dignity, fairness and respect
The Ipsos Mori report states that the payment:
“Helps to reduce the financial pressure on households, and generally makes a positive difference to peoples’ lives.
And that:
“The Scottish Child Payment has contributed to reducing food poverty" and that “the application process is considered quick and straightforward”overall.
Kenneth Gibson MSP said:
"The Scottish Child Payment was always going to play a substantial role in our fight to end child poverty across North Ayrshire and across Scotland.
“At this time when the pressures on households budgets continues its devastating increase, it is undeniably providing a lifeline for some of the most vulnerable households in our communities.
"The difference between the determination of the SNP Government and the shameful silence of both Tory Leadership candidates on the topic of child poverty speaks volumes.
"The SNP Government will continue to use the powers at its disposal to make a difference, but progress is clearly being held back by the inaction of the UK Government. Independence is the way to remedy that.”
The Ipsos Mori report can be read here.
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