People living in Motherwell and Wishaw are being encouraged to check if they qualify for extra financial support.
Eligible households could get a grant of up to £2,000 to help with rising energy costs. While those with young children are being reminded not to miss out on School Age Payments as the application deadline approaches.
Clare Adamson MSP is urging constituents to check their eligibility for a grant from the British Gas Energy Trust to assist with gas bills, you don’t have to be a British Gas customer to qualify for the grant, which will provide much-needed relief during the ongoing cost-of-living crisis. More information is available at the British Gas website.
In addition, a one-off payment of £150 is available from energy suppliers through the Warm Home Discount to support electricity bills for those who meet certain criteria.
Applications for the discount should be submitted to your own supplier before March 31, this year.
Ms Adamson, said: “I am urging my constituents in Motherwell and Wishaw to check whether they are eligible for extra support as this could make a real difference when managing energy costs.
“Frankly, we need to see some action from the UK Labour Government. They have cut the universal winter fuel payment for pensioners and people are struggling with soaring bills.
“The energy price cap has risen again and again despite Labour’s promise of lower energy bills.
“The rising cost of energy is causing huge problems for my constituents when finances are already stretched.
“You do not have to be a British Gas or Scottish Gas customer to qualify for support through the British Gas Energy Trust.
“And ask your own energy supplier about support through the Warm Home Discount, which provides a one-off payment towards electricity bills for eligible customers.”
The SNP MSP for Motherwell and Wishaw is also highlighting that the deadline for School Age Payments is approaching.
A one-off payment of £314.45 per child is made to families when their children are old enough to start primary school. It provides extra money to help with the costs of starting school and can cover things like a new pair of shoes, books and school bags.
Eligible families with children born between March 1, 2019 and February 29, 2020, who don’t get the payment automatically must apply before the deadline of February 28. This includes families who have deferred their child’s entry to school from August 2024 to August 2025, or those home educating.
“The Scottish Government is building a more compassionate system of social security,” Clare Adamson MSP said. “In Motherwell and Wishaw, SNP policy already supports families through the unique Scottish Child Payment, and Best Start Grant package.
“Most families get the School Age Payment automatically, if they are already entitled to the Scottish Child Payment. But it is still important to check your eligibility as you may qualify.
“Social security is a right and a basic safety net. We are building a fairer system in Scotland where people are supported to realise their rights; making sure you know what you are entitled to is a crucial part of that.”
For more information on the School Age Payment , or to apply for other Best Start Grant payments, visit: mygov.scot/best-start-grant-best-start-foods, or call Social Security Scotland free on 0800 182 2222.
Motherwell and Wishaw Citizens Advice Bureau can provide advice on a range of issues including debt. Phone 0808 196 9180, email: [email protected], or visit their office at 90 Brandon Parade East, Motherwell ML1 1LY.
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