Parents in Jersey, who haven't yet lived in the island for five years, will get a one-off payment to help with the rising cost of living.

Households with an annual income of less than £48,000 - or £36,000 for a single parent -  will be eligible for the extra government support.

Applications for payments of £250 for one child or £500 pounds for two children or more open on 3 January.

The move was agreed by the States Assembly as part of the Council of Ministers' mini-budget in September.

People who have lived in Jersey for fewer than five years are not covered by the island's benefits system.

Though applications have not opened yet, if is possible to contact Customer and Local Services (CLS) now and provide your details so you can be reminded to apply.

• Email: parentalsupportpayment@gov.je

• Phone: +44 1534 444444

During January and February, parents will be able to apply online on the gov.je website, by phone on 01534 444444 or in person by making an appointment with CLS.

“I hope these payments will help around 250-300 families that have been in the Island for less than 5 years and are not eligible for Jersey’s means tested benefits.

As well as providing the bonus payment, my officers will also be taking this opportunity to give advice and check that these families are fully aware of all the Government services that are available to them." - Deputy Elaine Millar, Minister for Social Security.

Advice will be available in a range of languages to help families who are non-English speaking.