Support if you are pregnant and living in Scotland
This briefing tells you the support available if you are pregnant in Scotland.
If you are pregnant and living in Scotland, there is support available for your health, housing, finances, and basic needs. It is important to get help early, especially if you are worried about money, housing, immigration issues, or your safety.
Health support
As soon as you know you are pregnant, contact your GP or local maternity services so you can be linked to a midwife. Your midwife will support you throughout your pregnancy and can also help you access other services such as mental health support, financial advice, and specialist support if you are experiencing domestic abuse or homelessness.
Financial support
You may be able to claim the Best Start Grant Pregnancy and Baby Payment. This is a one-off payment to help with the costs of having a baby.
You can usually apply from 24 weeks pregnant until your baby is 6 months old.
You may also be able to get Best Start Foods, which helps with the cost of healthy food such as milk, fruit, vegetables, eggs, pulses, and infant formula.
If you are on a low income, you may also be entitled to Universal Credit, and after your baby is born, Child Benefit and Scottish Child Payment.
Housing support
If you are pregnant and homeless, at risk of homelessness, sofa surfing, or living somewhere unsafe, contact your local council’s homelessness service immediately.
In Scotland, councils have legal duties to assess your situation and provide support.
Domestic abuse
If you are experiencing domestic abuse, coercive control, family violence, or honour-based abuse, support is available. Pregnancy can increase risk, and help should be sought as early as possible.
You can also speak confidentially to your midwife, GP, or a specialist support service.
Immigration and asylum support
If you are seeking asylum, have refugee status, or have immigration problems, you still have the right to NHS maternity care.
You may also need help with asylum support, legal advice, housing, and emergency financial assistance.
Essential items
If you need help with things such as a cot, pram, baby clothes, nappies, furniture, or energy costs, support may be available through the Scottish Welfare Fund and local charities.
Need help?
If you are struggling during pregnancy and do not know where to start, speak to your midwife, GP, local council, or an advice service as soon as possible. Early support can make a significant difference.
Last updated 27 April 2026