Benefits for new parents rise- how much will you get?

Statutory maternity pay and maternity allowance

 As with many other benefits this week, statutory maternity pay and maternity allowance are having rate rises of 6.7%.

 These two benefits are for mothers of newborn babies to help them take time away from work to look after their newborns.

Statutory maternity pay is paid through your employer and statutory maternity allowance comes direct from the DWP.

 These increases mean that mums claiming the benefits will have an extra £604.76 in the next year.  The benefits are going up from £172.48 per week to £184.03 per week, an increase of £11.63 per week.

Statutory shared parental pay, statutory paternity pay and statutory adoption pay

 For fathers, statutory shared parental pay and statutory paternity pay, as well as statutory adoption pay, will also increase.

 These benefits are going up from £172.48 per week to £184.03 per week, an increase of £11.63 per week, or £604.76 over the next 12 months of the new financial year, the same as the maternity benefits.

 It’s important to note that these benefits apply to same sex couples with newborns; you are entitled to the same leave and pay as anyone else who is having or adopting a baby, depending on your circumstance.

Claim your parental benefits.

 Are you struggling to buy things for your newborn?

Baby banks

 If you’re struggling to pay for essentials for your baby, a baby bank may be able to help.

 They provide things like clothes, toiletries, formula, nappies, wipes, toys etc.

 Just like foodbanks, you’ll need to be referred to get help. You may be able to get a referral from your midwife, support worker, health visitor, food bank, children’s centre or social worker.

 You can find your local baby bank by:

• using the interactive map on Little Village
• entering your postcode on netmums[RR2] 

 Ongoing support with baby costs

 If you’re on a low income, it’s a good idea to check out what regular support is available to help with baby costs. If you’re pregnant or have at least one child under four, you may be able to get help through the Healthy Start scheme.

Once you’re signed up, you’ll get a card that’s loaded with credit. This can be used in supermarkets to pay for formula, milk, and fruit and veg. The card is topped up every four weeks while you’re eligible.  

In Scotland, you might be able to apply for the  Best Start Foods scheme for children under three.