Helping Islington Families Access Healthy Food and Vitamins with the Healthy Start Scheme
Eating well is vital for growing families — but with the cost of living on the rise, many parents and carers are finding it harder to afford healthy essentials. The Healthy Start Scheme is here to help.
The scheme supports families who are more than 10 weeks pregnant or have children under four years old to buy healthy food, milk and vitamins. If you’re on a lower income, you may be eligible. Once approved, you’ll receive a pre-paid card topped up every four weeks, which can be used in many UK shops to buy fruit, vegetables, milk, and other nutritious staples.
Checking your eligibility and applying is simple — just visit www.healthystart.nhs.uk or call 0118 338 5810 for support and advice. You can also get help with your application by visiting your local children’s centre in Islington.
In addition, all Islington residents who are pregnant, trying for a baby, have recently had a baby, or have a child under four can access free Healthy Start vitamins. These vitamins are essential for maintaining healthy bones, teeth and muscles — supporting both mum and baby. Children’s vitamins also help keep immune systems strong and support healthy growth.
You can pick up your free vitamins from local children’s centres, some health centres, or your Health Visitor. To find your nearest collection point, please see the Islington vitamins map.
Together, we can make sure every family in Islington has access to the nutrition they need for a healthy start in life.