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 £383.75.

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 Support Payment

Carer Support Payment, a payment of £81.90 per week, is available for unpaid carers across Scotland who provide 35 or more hours of care a week to someone who receives disability benefits.

Carer Support Payment, delivered by Social Security Scotland, is the replacement in Scotland for  Carer’s Allowance  which is delivered by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP).

Carer Support Payment is available to some carers in education. This includes full-time students aged 20 or over and students under 20 who are in advanced or higher education. Eligibility has also been extended to carers aged 16-19 in non-advanced education. This includes those studying for National Certificates, Highers and Advanced Highers, who meet certain criteria, for example, not having any parental support.

Carers in Scotland who are already receiving Carer’s Allowance don’t need to apply for Carer Support Payment. Their award will be automatically transferred.

Find out more about eligibility and how to apply for Carer Support Payment.

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.