HMRC mums' grant proving popular

Date: 15th October 2009

The Health in Pregnancy Grant is proving successful, tax authority HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) has indicated.

According to the organisation, 468,000 pregnant women in the UK have received the £190 one-off payment over the six months the programme has been in operation.

Expectant mothers must claim for the benefits themselves, rather than being automatically enrolled.

The money is aimed at helping the group meet some of the extra costs caused by pregnancy and childbirth - as well as assisting them in keeping "fit and healthy" prior to giving birth.

It can only be claimed by women who are 25 weeks or more into their pregnancies.

Stephen Timms, financial secretary to the Treasury, commented: "If you're pregnant now don't lose out - it's really easy to claim.

"You can spend the cash on whatever you like, including fresh vegetables, a cot, nappies or baby clothes. It's completely up to you."

Other HMRC-run assistance for parents includes child benefit and child tax credits.