In a landmark policy shift aimed at tackling child poverty, the Scottish Government has announced that it will end the two-child benefit cap for devolved benefits starting in March. The controversial cap, introduced by the UK Government in 2017, limits financial support for families to their first two children unless specific exceptions apply. While Scotland does not have control over Universal Credit and other core welfare benefits administered by Westminster, it does manage certain devolved payments, such as the Scottish Child Payment, and will now remove the two-child restriction from these schemes.
This change, welcomed by anti-poverty campaigners and many families, is expected to provide much-needed relief to thousands of households struggling with the rising cost of living. Critics of the cap have long argued that it unfairly punishes larger families and disproportionately affects children in low-income households. The decision to end the limit in Scotland is seen as a moral stand against what many see as a discriminatory policy that fails to reflect the realities of family life.
Social Justice Secretary Shirley-Anne Somerville confirmed the move, stating that no child should be penalised for the size of their family. She emphasised the Scottish Government’s commitment to using all available powers to support families and reduce inequality. While she acknowledged that full mitigation of the UK-wide cap is not currently possible without control over the full benefits system, the steps being taken represent a significant stride in offering more inclusive support.
Under the revised policy, families receiving the Scottish Child Payment will no longer face restrictions based on the number of children they have. This is expected to lift financial barriers for many parents and ease the strain on households already facing hardship due to inflation, rising housing costs, and energy bills. Charities such as the Child Poverty Action Group have praised the decision, calling it a crucial step toward reducing child poverty and giving every child in Scotland the opportunity to thrive.
The move has also intensified calls for the UK Government to reconsider its stance on the two-child limit across the rest of the welfare system. Campaigners argue that if Scotland can take action within its limited powers, there is no reason why Westminster cannot do the same on a national scale. As March approaches, families across Scotland are hopeful that this policy change will bring them some relief and a greater sense of dignity and fairness.
