You could get a one-off payment of £500 to help towards the costs of having a child. This is known as a sure start maternity grant. You usually qualify for the grant if both of the following apply:

• you’re expecting your first child, or you’re expecting a multiple birth (such as twins) and have children already
• you or your partner already get certain Benefits.
• you must claim the grant within 11 weeks of the baby’s due date or within 6 months after the baby’s birth.
• you do not have to pay the grant back and it will not affect your other benefits or tax credits.

There is more information on the sure start website.