Financial Supports

On this page you will find information on the Financial Supports available to families. Click/Tap on the image to take you directly to the application form.

Find up to date information on the support and activities available for families across Edinburgh by clicking/tapping the buttons below.

If you need help finding support for you or your child, email supportingparentsandcarers@edinburgh.gov.uk #EdinSupportingFamilies

Mrs McGregor – Pupil Support Officer/Family Liaison at Tynecastle High School

If you would like support to complete any of the Financial Support forms mentioned on this page or further advice, please contact Yvonne McGregor, Pupil Support Officer.

You can email Yvonne at yvonne.mcgregor@tynecastle.edin.sch.uk or contact Yvonne via the school office on 0131 337 3488.

EMA – Education Maintenance Allowance

Young people aged 16-19 could get a weekly allowance of £30 per week if they are

  • at school
  • being home educated
  • on a NOLB activity agreement

Free School Meals & Clothing Grants

Families on low income can get school grants to help with the cost of lunches and school clothing.

Scottish Child Payment

Scottish Child Payment helps towards the costs of supporting your family. It’s a weekly payment of £25 that you can get for every child you look after who’s under 16 years of age. You’ll get the payment every 4 weeks if your application is successful.

Young Carer’s Grant

Young Carer Grant is a yearly payment of £326.65 for young carers ages 16, 17 or 18 in Scotland.

Best Start Grant and Best Start Foods

Best Start Grant and Best Start Foods are payments that help towards the costs of being pregnant or looking after a child. Best Start Grant is made up of 3 one-off payments:

  • Pregnancy and Baby Payment
  • Early Learning Payment
  • School Age Payment

Free Bus Pass

Young people can apply to the Young Persons’ Free Bus Travel Scheme

Young Person’s Free Bus Travel Scheme information page

Can I get this? Yes, it’s available for 5-21 year olds living in Scotland.

Which documents do I need to apply?

Cost of Living Services & Advice

Help with Energy Costs

Financial Support Leaflet for Families