A new carers benefit will boost the incomes of those who make “vital” contribution.
Scotland’s Social Justice Secretary has praised the work of unpaid carers across the nation as a new benefit is rolled out.
Shirley-Anne Somerville expressed she was “delighted” that the Carer Support Payment, which has been gradually introduced over the past year, is now available across all remaining 19 council areas in Scotland.
The initiative ensures that thousands of Scots are now eligible for the £81.90 weekly benefit, replacing the former Carers’ Allowance. Per year, the benefit can amount to as much as £4,258.80, which could make a substantial difference to a household’s income.
Addressing the pressing issue of poverty among carers, with over 100,000 in Scotland reportedly struggling financially, Carers Trust Scotland highlighted the new benefit, now the 14th managed by Social Security Scotland, as a game-changer expected to significantly improve many carers’ lives.
Eligibility for the much-needed funds extends to those providing a minimum of 35 hours a week of unpaid care to individuals receiving disability benefits.
Unlike Carers’ Allowance, the Carer Support Payment also welcomes applications from unpaid carers engaged in full-time education.
This inclusive approach benefits full-time students aged 20 or older and younger students involved in more advanced studies, plus certain teenagers aged 16 to 19 working for National Certificates, Highers, or Advanced Highers, subject to specific criteria.
Ms Somerville said: “The importance of the role of unpaid carers should not be underestimated. Their work is vital to the people they look after and to society as a whole.
“I am delighted that Carer Support Payment is now available in every local authority in Scotland.
“Many students will now be able to get this financial support for the first time, thanks to changes made by the Scottish Government.”
She added: “I urge anyone who thinks they might be eligible to find out more.”
Paul Traynor of Carers Trust Scotland expressed his views on the challenges faced by student carers, stating: “The immense contribution of unpaid carers to society cannot be understated, providing vital caring roles to their family and friends, and helping to hold society together.”
“Over 100,000 unpaid carers in Scotland are living in poverty and we hear all too often of the financial pressures of juggling studying and caring, where supplementing their income through employment is extremely challenging or not possible.”
He also highlighted the impact of these pressures on education, noting: “Research highlights that student carers can be up to four times more likely to drop out of college or university and financial struggles are often one of the key reasons for this.”
Mr Traynor added: “The national rollout of Carer Support Payment will help make a significant difference to many carers’ lives and support more student carers to remain and succeed in education.”
