Cost of living: 3 government schemes that could save parents £1,617 - six months left to apply for £500 grant

Many people dream of starting a family, but having a child is becoming increasingly difficult due to rising costs. It costs between £7,100 and £18,100 a year to raise a child according to research from Moneyfarm - an unimaginable amount of money for some, especially amid an ongoing cost of living crisis.

With this in mind Sophie Miller, the resident money saving expert at Vouchers.co.uk is urging all parents to check if they’re eligible for three Government schemes that could save them £1,617. The list of financial help available Includes a £500 grant for first time parents.

You’ll need to be quick though, as the grant needs to be claimed within 11 weeks of your baby’s due date or within six months after the baby’s birth. Here is a list of all the government schemes available that could save parents up to £1,617.

Sure Start Maternity Grant - £500

The Sure Start Maternity Grant is a one-off payment of £500 towards the cost of having a child. The grant must be claimed within 11 weeks of the baby’s due date or within six months after the baby’s birth so it’s important all new and expectant parents are aware of it.

You are likely to receive the grant if you’re expecting your first child, a multiple birth such as twins and have children already or if you and your partner already receive certain benefits including income support, child tax credit, Universal Credit and others.

If you live in Scotland you cannot apply for this grant - but you can apply for a Pregnancy and Baby payment instead.

April increase in maternity allowance - £617