Monday August 17th 2026
Colin Beattie MSP for Midlothian North
Colin Beattie MSP, Midlothian North, writes his monthly column for Midlothian View.
The beginning of a new school year brings a mix of emotions for pupils, both nerves and excitement for the year ahead and for parents, it can bring worry as this can be an expensive time. School uniforms, shoes, bags, stationery and other items all add up leaving some families concerned over their finances. This is especially true as the wider impact of the cost-of-living pressures continue. The SNP Scottish Government is aware of this and are committed to providing financial support to ensure Scotland is the best place to raise a family.
There is a range of support you may be entitled to, including the School Clothing Grant which has increased to at least £120 for primary pupils and £150 for secondary pupils. You can apply for this through Midlothian Council, and I would encourage you to check your eligibility and apply.
Additionally, the Best Start School Age Payment is a one-off payment to eligible families when their child starts primary school worth £331.95 to support the essentials that come with starting school. 345 payments were made to families in Midlothian last year and you can apply for this through Social Security Scotland.
The Scottish Child Payment has been a real difference maker for families, putting money in their pockets to help with both the school and everyday essentials. This Scotland-only benefit has increased to £40 per week for children under one year old and £28.20 per week for those under 16. This unique payment is not only about supporting children entering school but also a key measure in the Scottish Government’s aim to eradicate child poverty.
A child can’t learn on an empty stomach. That is why over 360,000 children in Scotland are entitled to free school meals, saving families around £450 per eligible child per year. The Scottish Government is also committed to expanding this further over the course of the parliament to ensure that every child can benefit from a free, healthy, nutritious school meal.
It is important that we ensure every child and family can start the new school year feeling prepared and confident, and I hope the measures listed above ease any worry you may have about the financial pressures of the new year.
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