As part of the measures to reduce the budget deficit the Government has announced that it is to stop the payment of the Health in Pregnancy Grant to all pregnant women.

The payment will be halted on 1 January 2011. After this women will still be able to claim for a short period of time providing they have already reached the 25th week of their pregnancy. This means that if your baby's expected date of birth is before 17 April 2011 you can still claim.

How to claim?
You can get a claim form from your midwife or if you normally see a doctor for your pregnancy check-ups ask them. They will need to sign to say that you have reached the 25th week of your pregnancy and received appropriate advice about keeping healthy in pregnancy. You then need to complete your details and send the form back; you should get a pre-paid envelope with the form.

How much do you get?
All pregnant women receive the same amount of £190. The grant is not means tested and will not be affected by any other benefits or tax credits that you claim. The £190 will be paid directly into your bank or building society account.