What You’re Entitled to As a Young Carer in Scotland

There are an estimated 29,000 young carers in Scotland, and no matter what you do in your caring role, if you meet certain eligibility requirements, you’re entitled to financial support and help with looking after your mental health and wellbeing.

Read on to find out more about what’s available to young carers in Scotland.

Not sure if you’re a young carer? Check out our information article on the kinds of things being a young carer might involve.

Young Carer Grant

The Young Carer Grant, provided by Social Security Scotland, is a yearly payment of £359.65.

The Young Carer Grant is for young carers who are aged 16, 17 or 18, and provide care for an average of 16 hours per week (for at least three months).

You may be caring for just one person, or up to three people, but any time you spend caring counts towards the 16 hours per week.

Find out more about eligibility and how to apply for the Young Carer Grant.

Carer’s Allowance

Carer’s Allowance is a benefit provided by the UK government, and might be a better option if you care for someone, or multiple people, full time. However, you will only receive one allowance.

To be eligible for Carer’s Allowance, you must be aged 16 or over, and the person you care for must be receiving certain benefits, such as Personal Independence Payment (PIP).

There are also certain rules about how much time you spend in education or work.

Carer’s Allowance is a weekly payment of £76.75 which you can choose to receive every week, or every four weeks.

Find out more about eligibility and how to apply for Carer’s Allowance.

In Scotland, if you’re receiving Carer’s Allowance, you may also be eligible for the Carer’s allowance supplement which is an extra payment made twice a year.

Young Scot’s Young Carers Package

Any young person in Scotland who provides care to someone, and is aged 11-18 inclusive, can sign up for our Young Carers Package, a free bundle of treats to help support your wellbeing as a carer.

Young carers can claim vouchers, tickets to events and prizes through our free Young Scot Membership. It takes a few minutes to sign up, and you do not need a Young Scot National Entitlement Card to get started.

Find out more about the Young Scot Young Carers Package and how to sign up through Young Scot Membership.