Picture buying essentials like milk, fruits, and baby food â without it costing you anything.
Thatâs what the Healthy Start scheme is here for. Thousands of UK families are already using it â and you might qualify too.
Hereâs how it works.
đ What the Card Lets You Buy
Accepted at most UK supermarkets, the card can be used to buy:
- đ„ Milk (any type: whole, semi-skimmed, skimmed)
- đ Fruits and veggies (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- đŒ Infant formula
- đ„« Pulses â beans, lentils, chickpeas
- đ Free NHS vitamins for both parent and child
As long as itâs on the approved list, youâre good to go.
đ· What Youâll Receive
The amount added depends on your circumstances:
- ÂŁ4.25 per week per child under 4
- ÂŁ8.50 per week if youâre pregnant or have a baby under 1
- Funds are automatically reloaded every month
Youâll continue receiving funds as long as youâre eligible.
đ Where to Use the Card
Your Healthy Start card works like a debit card and is accepted at:
- Tesco
- Aldi
- Lidl
- ASDA
- Iceland
- Co-op
- And smaller local retailers
Just tap and pay â no special setup required in stores.
đ How to Apply
Applying is fast and free. Youâll need to provide:
- Your full name and address
- Date of birth
- National Insurance number
Once approved, the card is mailed straight to your home.
đ Can You Apply?
Yes, if:
- Youâre pregnant
- You have a child under 4
- You receive Universal Credit, Child Tax Credit, or similar benefits
Even if youâre unsure, itâs worth checking â many donât realise they qualify.
đĄ A Friendly Reminder
You donât have to be a UK citizen â just live in the UK and meet the benefit criteria.
Apply now so you can start receiving your support as soon as possible.