The Health Secretary is expected to announce a 'Health in Pregnancy Grant' later this week, according to the BBC.
In it, there will be provision for pregnant women to receive a one-off payment of £200, in the 29th week of their pregnancy, to encourage better eating habits. The move comes as part of the government's drive to ensure better health for women and their new babies and reduce the UK's infant mortality rate.
However, whilst many charities have welcomed the idea of helping raise awareness of the importance of diet and nutrition during pregnancy, they are concerned that there seems to be no provision for making sure that the money would be spent on eating more healthily. Additionally, good nutrition is essential long before 29 weeks, and many believe is key even during the conception months.
Additionally, as other forms of maternity care are being reduced across the country, the grant does not address the many other factors influencing the health of a mother and baby.
Although women on low incomes can already apply for a £500 grant towards the cost of having a new baby, the new grant would not be means-tested. That is, it would go to all women who were pregnant, when they reach 29 weeks. It is believed the new grant would come in for April 2009.
