Cash boost for mums to be

PREGNANT women in Suffolk, who are due to give birth after April 6, are being urged to apply for a special grant.Around 7,924 babies are born every year in the county, including 1,777 in Ipswich, and the one-off payment of �190 is intended to help mums-to-be stay fit and healthy in the run up to the birth, and help meet some of the costs as the big day approaches.

PREGNANT women in Suffolk, who are due to give birth after April 6, are being urged to apply for a special grant.

Around 7,924 babies are born every year in the county, including 1,777 in Ipswich, and the one-off payment of �190 is intended to help mums-to-be stay fit and healthy in the run up to the birth, and help meet some of the costs as the big day approaches.

The money can be claimed from the 25th week of pregnancy after receiving health advice from a midwife, or other health professional. The claim form has to be signed and sent off within 31 days.

When it is approved, the money is paid directly into a bank or building society account. Women who apply in the first three months of the year will get the cash in April.

Stephen Timms, financial secretary to the Treasury, said: “We understand that the run up to a birth is an expensive time for families. The new Health in Pregnancy Grant will help expectant mums meet these extra costs and give their child the best possible start in life.

“It's very easy to make a claim and pregnant women can spend the cash on whatever they like, including fresh fruit and vegetables, nappies or even a pram or baby bath. It's their choice.”

Pregnant women can get more information at direct.gov.uk/money4mum2be.