The Healthy Start UK Scheme is a government program that helps families with young children access free food and vitamins. If you are a parent, expectant mother, or guardian in the UK, this scheme can provide essential support while your child grows. This article explains everything you need to know about eligibility, benefits, and how to apply in 2025.
What is the Healthy Start UK Scheme?
The Healthy Start UK Scheme provides financial support to low-income families. You can receive vouchers or a digital card to buy:
- Milk
- Fresh fruits and vegetables
- Infant formula
- Healthy Start vitamins for mothers and children
The aim is to ensure children and pregnant women get good nutrition during early development.
Who is Eligible for Healthy Start?
To qualify in 2025, you must meet both age and income conditions:
1. Age and Family Conditions
- You are pregnant or have a child under 4 years old.
- You have a child under 1 year old for infant formula vouchers.
2. Income Conditions
You are eligible if you receive one of these benefits:
- Universal Credit (with limited earnings)
- Child Tax Credit (with income ≤ £16,190/year, no Working Tax Credit)
- Income Support
- Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance
- Income-related Employment and Support Allowance
- Pension Credit
3. Residency Conditions
- You must live in the UK (England, Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland).
- You or your child must be registered with a GP.
Did you know?
Many families miss out on the Healthy Start UK Scheme every year, even though 1 in 3 eligible parents never apply! If you get Universal Credit or Child Tax Credit and have a child under 4, you could be getting over £250 a year in free healthy food and milk.
How Much Support Can You Get?
The amount depends on your family situation. As of 2025:
| Family Situation | Vouchers per Week | Digital Card Value (£) |
|---|---|---|
| Pregnant woman | 4.25 | £4.25 |
| Child under 1 | 8.50 | £8.50 |
| Child 1–4 years | 4.25 | £4.25 |
- If you have twins or more, the amount increases per child.
- The vouchers are now replaced with a digital card in most areas.
How to Apply for the Healthy Start UK Scheme
- Check Eligibility: Use the UK government Healthy Start online checker.
- Prepare Documents: You may need:
- NHS number
- Proof of pregnancy or birth certificate
- Benefit details
Then:
- Apply Online: Go to the Healthy Start website and fill out the form.
- Receive Digital Card: Your card will arrive in the post within 2–4 weeks.
- Use Your Card: Buy eligible food items at supermarkets and local shops.
Benefits of Using the Healthy Start Scheme
- Healthy Nutrition: Helps your child grow strong and healthy.
- Financial Support: Reduces grocery costs for families on a tight budget.
- Easy Access: Most supermarkets accept the digital card.
- Vitamins Included: Free vitamins for mothers and children to prevent deficiencies.
FAQ
1. Can I apply if I recently moved to the UK?
Yes, as long as you are living in the UK and meet the benefit conditions. You must also be registered with a GP.
2. Can I get Healthy Start if I have more than one child?
Yes. You will receive additional vouchers/digital card balance for each child under 4 years old.
Conclusion
The Healthy Start UK Scheme is an excellent resource for families with young children or expectant mothers. It provides financial support for healthy food and vitamins, helping children grow strong while easing household costs. Applying is simple, and most eligible families in the UK can benefit immediately.
Have a question in mind?
Post it in the comments. I will reply and share the answer with everyone. For personal queries, please reach me via my Contact page.
Hi, Can fathers or partners apply on behalf of the mother?
Absolutely, John! Yes, a partner can apply if they’re responsible for the child and tick all the eligibility boxes. Just make sure the details match the child’s records. 😊