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 they do in their caring role, if they meet certain eligibility requirements, they are entitled to financial support and help with looking after their mental health and wellbeing.
Young Carer Grant
The Young Carer Grant, provided by Social Security Scotland, is a yearly payment of £326.65.
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.
You can find out how young carers can apply for the grant and further information here: https://www.mygov.scot/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 £67.60 which you can choose to receive every week, or every four weeks.
You can find out more details on how young carers can claim for Carers Allowance here: https://www.gov.uk/carers-allowance
In Scotland, if a young carer is receiving Carer’s Allowance, they may also be eligible for the Carer’s Allowance Supplement, which is an extra payment made twice a year.
Find more details on this here: https://www.mygov.scot/carers-allowance-supplement
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 a Young Carers Package, which is a free bundle of treats to help support carers wellbeing.
Young carers can claim vouchers, tickets to events and prizes through free Young Scot Membership.
You can find more details on this here: https://young.scot/get-informed/national/young-carers-package
You can find out more information on support for young carers at the Young Scot website here: https://young.scot/campaigns/national/young-carers
