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Social Security Scotland Benefits - Guidance on benefits for refugees
Created: 02/07/2024In their most recent newsletter, Social Security Scotland has emphasised that refugees in Scotland are entitled to the same social and economic rights as any other citizen, which includes benefits.
At the end of 2022, the Scottish Government widened eligibility for the higher rate of Best Start Grant Pregnancy and Baby Payment for certain people, including refugees.
If someone has been granted refugee status, humanitarian protection, or leave under the Afghanistan or Ukraine resettlement schemes, and their other children were born before they arrived in the UK, they can receive the higher rate of £754.65 for a new child.
Payments similar to Best Start Foods are also available for some families who cannot access public funds because of their immigration status.
Recognising that English may not be the first language of many refugees, information on all Social Security Scotland benefits is translated into the 12 languages used in communities across Scotland. They have also translated factsheets into Ukrainian to help refugees and displaced people access benefits.
How to apply
Refugees, or organisations supporting refugees, can find more information and apply online here. People can apply in person, over the phone or ask for a paper application form by post by calling free on 0800 182 2222.