Written question asked by Lee Dillon (Liberal Democrat) on Monday, 15 June 2026, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Wednesday, 17 June 2026. It was answered by Sharon Hodgson (Labour) on Tuesday, 23 June 2026 on behalf of the Department of Health and Social Care.

Nutrition: Low Incomes

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, what steps he is taking to improve access to affordable, healthy food for low-income households.

Answer

The Healthy Start Scheme helps to encourage a healthy diet for pregnant women, babies, and young children under four years old from very low-income households. In April 2026 the value of the weekly payments increased by 10%. Pregnant women and children aged over one and under four years old will each receive £4.65 per week, up from £4.25, and children under one years old will each receive £9.30 per week, up from £8.50. Further information on The Eatwell Guide and the Family Hubs and Start for Life programme guide are available, respectively, at the following two links:

https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/the-eatwell-guide

https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/media/69cd4890b5210036050bc6b2/Withdrawn_-_Family_Hubs_Service_Expectations_2025-2026.pdf

Secondary information

Type: Written question
Reference: 9930
Session: 2026-27
Subjects: Food Low incomes Nutrition
Link: View this Written question on www.parliament.uk

Nutrition: Low Incomes

Secondary information

Librarians' tools