283 families in Na h-Eileanan an Iar have received a £100 COVID winter hardship payment

New figures show that the SNP Government provided support to thousands in each of Scotland’s local authorities – with more than £14million paid out to families in December.

In Na h-Eileanan an Iar, £28,300 was paid out to 283 families.

The payment was made available to families who were in receipt of free school meals and was paid from November 30 to the start of the winter school holidays.

Commenting, SNP MSP Alasdair Allan said: “With the Scottish Government rolling out the Scottish Child Payment and supporting families across Scotland with the £100 COVID winter hardship payment, the SNP is making a real difference and lifting children out of poverty.

“This has been an incredibly difficult time for families who may have lost earnings, and seen increased food bills. The £100 winter payment will hopefully have eased the financial strain.

“In contrast to the Tories at Westminster, the SNP Scottish Government is doing all it can to ensure kids who receive free school meals do not go hungry.

“Alongside introducing the Scottish Child Payment, Best Start and Best Food Grants, this SNP Government is committed to supporting children, whereas the Tories are planning to slash Universal Credit and get rid of the £20 uplift when families need it most.