Mims Davies MP supports the Healthy Start programme.
A third of eligible families in East Sussex are not claiming up to £34 a month through the Healthy Start scheme. Around £270,000 is going unclaimed by around 1,232 expectant parents and people with young children in the county each year.
If eligible, you will receive between £4.25 and £8.50 per week to buy healthy food and milk through the scheme.
To be eligible, you must be more than 10 weeks pregnant or have a child under four years old. You must also be on a low income – visit the Healthy Starts website or ask your healthcare provider to see if you’re eligible.
Following a successful application, you’ll be sent a Healthy Start card with money pre-loaded on it that can be used in some UK shops. The card will then be automatically topped up every 4 weeks.
You can use your card to buy:
- plain liquid cow’s milk
- fresh, frozen, and tinned fruit and vegetables
- fresh, dried, and tinned pulses
- infant formula milk based on cow’s milk
You can also use your card to collect free:
- Healthy Start vitamins – these support you during pregnancy and breastfeeding
- vitamin drops for babies and young children – these are suitable from birth to 4 years old
There’s more information on how to apply, answers to frequently asked questions, as well as tips for healthier eating on the NHS website.
If you need further help to apply speak to a health professional or visit your local family hub. You can find a service near you on the family hub website.
