More than 11,500 children across the Highlands are now receiving support through the Scottish Child Payment, according to newly released figures.

The latest statistics show that 11,555 children in Highland were benefiting from the payment as of March 2026, highlighting the scale of support being provided to families facing rising living costs.

Introduced in February 2021, Scottish Child Payment is available only in Scotland and currently provides eligible families with £28.20 per week for every child under the age of 16.

The payment is made every four weeks and is designed to help families meet everyday costs while tackling child poverty.

The Scottish Government estimates that Scottish Child Payment will help keep around 50,000 children out of relative poverty during 2026 and 2027.

Supporters of the scheme say it has become one of the most significant anti poverty measures introduced in Scotland in recent years.

The payment forms part of a wider package of family support aimed at improving outcomes for children and helping households cope with financial pressures.

The Scottish Government has also announced plans to increase support for families with babies.

Social Justice Secretary Shirley-Anne Somerville said:

“Eradicating child poverty and supporting families with the cost of living is a key focus for this government.

“It’s clear that the Scottish Child Payment is making a major difference to families which is why we will now go further by increasing the Scottish Child Payment to £40 per week for families with children under the age of one.

“We remain fully committed to doing everything we can to support families and give every child the best possible start in life. Scottish Child Payment remains central to that mission.”

The figures underline the importance of the payment for thousands of families across the Highlands, where the additional costs associated with rural living can place further pressure on household budgets.

With more than 11,500 Highland children now benefiting from the scheme, Scottish Child Payment continues to play a major role in efforts to reduce poverty and improve opportunities for young people across the region.