Get help with food and milk costs for your children

What is Healthy Start? 

Healthy Start is a government scheme that provides financial support to buy food and milk for children under four years old, or for expectant mothers who are over 10 weeks pregnant. The scheme also offers free Healthy Start vitamins to support maternal and child health. 

Find out more on our website.

Who can claim? 

You may be eligible for Healthy Start if you: 

• Are at least 10 weeks pregnant and/or have at least one child under four years old and either:
• Receive Universal Credit and earn less than £408 a month, or 
• Receive Child Tax Credit, earn less than £16,190 per year, and do not receive Working Tax Credit 

How to apply 

Applying is simple and depends on the benefits you receive: 

• If you receive Universal Credit or Child Tax Credit, and have a child under four, or are pregnant, apply online at www.healthystart.nhs.uk 
• If you receive Child Tax Credit, are more than 10 weeks pregnant, and have older children aged four or above, apply by emailing healthy.start@nhsbsa.nhs.uk or calling 0300 330 7010 

More support for families 

We are committed to making life more affordable for residents. All children under eight can swim for free at council-owned pools when accompanied by a parent or guardian. Find out more about free swimming and other leisure offers.

We are also helping ease the cost of living and giving babies the best start in life with a unique support package for young parents. Care-experienced parents and those aged under 21 in need will receive a free Baby Box filled with essentials, plus ongoing support from the Family Hub and health experts. This initiative ensures families get the help they need during the crucial early years. Find out more about early years support. 

Our Family Hubs provide a safe, welcoming space where families and young people can access free advice and support. Open to parents and children aged 0-19 (or up to 25 for those with special educational needs and disabilities), the hubs in Battersea and Roehampton offer vital services and fun activities. A new hub is opening in Tooting this March, expanding support for local families. Find out more about Family Hubs. 

If you need help, we are here to support you. Our dedicated phone line 020 8871 6000 is open Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm (except bank holidays), and under our new 7 Rings, 7 Days guarantee, your call will be answered within seven rings. 

For more information on cost of living support, visit our cost of living hub.