FROM childcare costs to buying extra food in the weekly shop, kids sure aren’t cheap.
But parents claiming Universal Credit and other benefits can get extra support through a whole range of freebies and perks.
Here’s what is available . . .
PREGNANCY PERK: You could qualify for the Sure Start Maternity Grant if you are claiming benefits and expecting your first child.
You can also qualify if you already have children and are expecting twins or triplets.
It’s a one-off payment worth £500 to help with the cost of having a child.
New parents can claim the grant within 11 weeks of the baby’s due date or up to six months after the baby is born.
You will need to print out and fill in the Sure Start Maternity Grant form.
HEALTHY HELP: New or expectant parents can get up to £442 worth of free food a year through the NHS Healthy Start scheme.
Anyone receiving benefits and more than ten weeks pregnant or with a child under four can apply online or via email.
Scheme members are sent a card which can be used in supermarkets and retailers.
You can also apply to join if you are under 18 and not on benefits.
CHILDCARE BOOST: You can get 85 per cent of your childcare costs paid each month, up to a maximum of £1,014 for one child or £1,739 for two or more.
To get the help you need to make a claim via your Universal Credit online account.
You and your partner, if you live with them, need to be working or to have a job offer.
MEAL DEAL: In England, children in reception, year one or year two at a state school are entitled to free school meals.
And if you are claiming certain benefits, you can get free school meals for older children as well.
To find out who to contact and how to apply, type your postcode into the Government’s website at gov.uk/apply-free-school-meals.
PUT the mink faux fur coat from New Look on your Santa list.
It’s down to £40, from £69.99.
SAVE: £29.99
GET a three-piece eye brush set at Superdrug, down from £6 to £3.
SAVE: £3
SWAP an unused toy for a festive cocktail at the Be At One bar chain.
Bring your toy – to be donated to a child in need – to any of its 40 locations either tomorrow, Tuesday or Wednesday to pick up a free tipple.
GET the look of love in this heart-shaped wicker mirror, £50, Dunelm (in store only) or head to Matalan for a similar version, £20.
SAVE: £30
USE the coupon from your Asda Rewards app wallet to get a £60, 7ft pre-lit Christmas tree for £30, saving £30.The offer ends today.
USE a Nectar card to get Sainsbury’s Blanc de Noirs champagne for £15, down from £25.
Save a further 25 per cent when you buy six bottles, taking the price to £11.25 each.
SAVE: Up to £13.75 a bottle
GOT a Morrisons More card? Get a litre of Baileys in store for £8.50 when you spend £45, until Thursday.
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