Public Health news: Healthy Start Digital Scheme

June 2022

Healthy Start Digital Scheme

Anyone who is pregnant or families with children under 4 and in receipt of qualifying benefits may be entitled to get help to buy some basic foods and milk.

Find out if you're eligible for the Healthy Start scheme at NHS Healthy Start and apply online.

To apply, you will need your:

• name
• address
• date of birth
• National Insurance number
• baby's due date (if you're pregnant)
• benefit award letter if you're over 18 (you must enter the same information that's on this letter)

You'll receive your Healthy Start prepaid card by post. It'll come with your first payment on it and instructions on how to activate and use it. Money will be automatically added to your card every 4 weeks. The card can be used at any retailer that sells the eligible healthy start food and milk items and displays the Mastercard® acceptance mark. You must keep your card if you're still getting your benefit. You could get £4.25 per week to help you buy healthy food and milk for your child.

You need to know your PIN before you use your card in a shop. You can find out your PIN when you call (0300 330 2090) to activate your card. You can check your balance at any cash point. You will need your PIN to check your balance at a cash point. You cannot withdraw cash.

Anyone who lives in South Tyneside and is at least 10 weeks pregnant and / or has a child under 4 years old can also claim FREE Healthy Start Vitamins every 8 weeks.