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New Grant Helps Mums stay Healthy
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The Government is launching a new scheme in April 2009 to help expectant mums stay healthy throughout the course of their pregnancy. The "Health in Pregnancy Grant" (HiPG) is a one off payment available to soon to be mothers from the 25th week of their pregnancy. The aim of the payment of £190 is to encourage women to stay healthy through lifestyle and diet in the later stages of pregnancy and to help prepare for the birth of their baby.
Keeping up a healthy diet and lifestyle is key in all stages throughout the course of a pregnancy especially during the final weeks. The government already offers low income families and mothers a "Sure Start Maternity Grant" that helps with costs linked to the child's birth and "Healthy Start Vouchers" that provide mums with extra money for fruit, vegetables and milk during their pregnancy. The aim of the HiPG is in addition to the current benefits and is not related to income.
Women who would like to take advantage of this scheme will need to submit a claim form and have it signed by the doctor or registered midwife who has been supporting them during their pregnancy. One of the requirements for mothers to claim the grant is that they are seeking professional health advice and pregnancy information1. Pregnant mums will be able to get a claim form from their midwife or doctor who will fill out and sign their part of the form before giving it to you. This will hopefully provide an incentive for more expectant mums to get the recommended professional pregnancy and health advice at key stages of their pregnancy.
The 25 week antenatal appointment recommended for first time mums is a key stage in monitoring a pregnant mum's progress and the grant has been tied in specifically to coincide with this appointment. Healthcare professionals will be able to give mothers information on the forms and advice on how to claim whilst they are at this antenatal appointment.
The grant itself is to be administered by the HM Revenue and Customs, is non-taxable or means tested and will not affect the benefits that expectant mums may already be receiving.
About the Author
This article was written by Tom Sangers on behalf of MoneyforMums.co.uk who provide information to help pregnant mums stay on top of their family's finances using the new health in pregnancy grant
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