Parents on a low income

If you’re managing on any of the following, you could qualify for a Sure Start Maternity Grant of £500 to help you with essential items for the baby:

• Income Support
• Jobseeker's Allowance
• Pension Credit
• Child Tax Credits above the family element
• Working Tax Credits where a disability element is included.

To claim this, contact your local Jobcentre Plus or the Department of Social Security in Northern Ireland to receive form SF100 (Sure Start).

And if your income is less than £16,190 a year, you may be able to receive Healthy Start Vouchers to help you claim free milk, fresh fruit and vegetables. The vouchers are worth £3.10 per week if you're pregnant,  £6.20 per week for each baby under one or £3.10 per child over one and under four.  To find out if you're eligible to claim, visit www.healthystart.nhs.uk