Parents and carers who receive NHS Healthy Start vouchers are being urged to act now to avoid any gap in support as the scheme moves to using a pre-paid card.
The government scheme provides access to free fruit, vegetables, pulses, milk and vitamins for pregnant women and parents or carers of children up to four years old who are on a low-income.
People currently receive paper vouchers through the post but from 10th March 2022 these have been replaced with a pre-paid card.
The card will be topped up once a month with their Healthy Start item allowance and will be available to use in any shops, markets and food outlets accepting Mastercard.
(We do have to wonder how many low-paid workers, and those on benefits, might actually have a Mastercard?).
Any paper vouchers people have already received will still be valid until 10th June 2022.
Lancashire County Councillor Michael Green, Cabinet Member for Health and Wellbeing said earlier this month: “There are many benefits to Healthy Start for those who are eligible, as it can help contribute towards their weekly food shop to buy items such as milk, fruits and vegetables, pulses and/or infant formula.
“I would encourage anyone who is already registered with the scheme to reapply urgently if they haven’t already done so, to make sure they continue receiving this vital support.
“Likewise, if you think you may be eligible, I encourage you to check, as the support can be helpful, particularly when fuel and food prices are rising.”