Families in Scotland are encouraged to apply for a £330 one-off grant under the Best Start Grant school age payment, aimed at easing financial burdens associated with children starting primary school. The grant, amounting to £331.95 per child, is available to families with children aged four to five. Applications opened on June 1, 2023, and will be accepted until February 28, 2027. Social Justice Secretary Shirley-Anne Somerville emphasized the importance of this support, stating it is crucial for ensuring that every child begins their school journey adequately equipped, regardless of their family's financial circumstances. To qualify for the grant, applicants typically need to be receiving one of six specified benefits from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP), including universal credit and housing benefit. This initiative is part of a broader commitment to combat child poverty in Scotland, as noted by Sara Spencer, project manager of the Cost Of The School Day initiative, who highlighted the financial pressures families face during this transition.