A LOCAL politician has welcomed poverty groups and experts who have highlighted the "vital impact" of the Scottish Child Payment on tackling child poverty.

It comes after East Renfrewshire's MP Kirsten Oswald said the payment is "game-changing".

The payment, which was introduced as part of Scotland's new social security system provides families with £25 a week per eligible child.

Recent figures have revealed that over 300,000 youngsters across Scotland are in receipt of the funding.

Speaking to the Scottish Parliament's Social Justice and Social Security Committee, Chris Birt, Associate Director for Scotland at the Joseph Rowntree Foundation said: "The Scottish Child Payment is working.

"It is significantly reducing child poverty. Some people will give various different numbers, but it is probably four of five per cent at the moment - it will significantly reduce child poverty. 

"That is a really good thing."

Meanwhile, Bill Scott, Chair of the Poverty and Inequality Commission added: "The Scottish Child Payment has made a significant difference and it will continue to make a significant difference."

Praising the payment, Kirsten Oswald MP said: "The Scottish Child Payment is one of the most important policies introduced since the establishment of the Scottish Parliament and it is encouraging to learn from experts about the positive impact it is having on directly tackling child poverty.

"I am delighted to see the game-changing payment benefitting so many children across Scotland."