THE launch of a new Government scheme for young families on low incomes was attended by local representatives.

Healthy Start aims to help young mothers give their children the best start in life by boosting their income to buy fresh fruit, vegetables, infant formula and receive free vitamin supplements.

The programme is set up to replace the Welfare Food Scheme and help poorer families eat well as their financial situation makes them more likely to suffer ill-health.

It introduces equal benefits for breastfeeding and bottle-feeding mothers, and for the first time will be open to all pregnant women aged under 18.

Leyton MP Harry Cohen and Cllr Miranda Grell attended the launch of Healthy Start in Parliament with Government Health Minister Caroline Flint.

Mrs Flint said: "Poor diet can have a real impact on people's health. We want people to have the best possible opportunity to eat healthily, but for poor families in low income households this is sometimes easier said than done.

"This new scheme will not only provide greater choice of healthy food, but will also mean that children can get milk, fresh fruit and vegetables from the cradle up, helping to give them the best possible start in life."

Eligible pregnant women are entitled to one voucher worth £2.80 each week which they can exchange at participating retailers for milk, fruit, vegetables and infant formula.

Their applications must be signed off by health professionals who can provide information and advice about healthy eating and the benefits of breast feeding.

The scheme is expected to cover 600,000 people at a cost of £129m.

Pregnant women and families can check if they qualify for the scheme and download an application form from the Healthy Start website, www.healthystart.nhs.-uk or telephone 08701 555 455.