Parents and pregnant shoppers could be entitled to free fruit and veg from Tesco, Aldi and Asda – are you eligible?
Major supermarkets in the UK are offering this helpful boost to women from their 10th week of pregnancy, or anyone with a child aged four or under.
What is the Healthy Start scheme?
Shoppers used to redeem vouchers at various supermarkets and grocers like Tesco, Iceland, and Aldi. However, now, more practical pre-paid cards are provided, which can be used at any location that accepts Mastercard.
The pre-paid cards can be used at supermarkets, convenience stores, grocery stores, drug stores, pharmacies, markets, dairy products stores, and butcher shops, among others.
Who is eligible for the scheme and how can I apply?
The scheme is not open to all new parents or pregnant women. Applicants must be on certain benefits to be eligible, including Child Tax Credit, Income Support, Jobseeker's Allowance, Pension Credit, Universal Credit, or Working Tax Credits run-on.
Alternatively, eligibility is granted if you're under 18 and pregnant, even if you are not claiming any benefits, or if you claim income-related Employment and Support Allowance (ESA) and are over 10 weeks pregnant.
How do I apply?
To apply for the Healthy Start scheme, you can visit the NHS Healthy Start website. If you need assistance or cannot apply online, you can contact NHS Healthy Start via phone or email.
When applying, you will need to provide your name, address, date of birth, National Insurance number, baby's due date (if pregnant), and benefit award letter (if over 18).
If you already receive vouchers, you will need to sign up for the prepaid card system.
