Find out more about the Spring Hardship Payment

The payment, which was announced in February by the Scottish Government, is available to all children and young people eligible for a free meal, due to low income or qualifying benefits, in school or an early learning and childcare setting.

If your child or young person received a Winter Hardship Payment there is no need to reapply. The payment will be made automatically by bank transfer. If your bank details have changed since you received this payment, please fill out our online form as soon as you can https://​www.east-ayrshire.gov.uk/springhardshippayment​​

If you have a child or young person at school (P1 – S6), you can still apply for a Clothing Grant and Free School Meals. If you are eligible and apply before Thursday 1 April, you will receive a Spring Hardship payment.

If you have a child that attends an early learning and childcare setting and did not apply for the Winter Hardship Payment in January but think you might be eligible now, then you can apply for the Spring Hardship Payment. The closing date for applications is Thursday 1 April.

Parents of all eligible children and young people who receive a free school meal as of Monday 22 March will receive their payment on Thursday 1 April. Parents of children and young people who become eligible after Monday 22 March and who apply before the deadline of Thursday 1 April, will receive their payment by Thursday 15 April.