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A new benefit called Carer Support Payment is replacing Carer’s Allowance in Scotland. If you look after someone who is disabled or who has a long-term health condition, you may be entitled.
Carer Support Payment is paid at the same rate as Carer’s Allowance - this is currently £81.90 per week or £327.60 every four weeks.
Who can apply?
If you do not already receive Carer’s Allowance, you must:
· be 16 or over;
· usually live in Scotland;
· provide care for 35 hours or more a week, this includes if you provide care all day every day; and
· not earn more than £151 a week after tax, National Insurance and expenses.
The person you care for must be in receipt of certain disability benefits.
What if I already receive Carer’s Allowance?
You do not need to apply for Carer Support Payment. The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) and Social Security Scotland will move your benefit for you.
The amount you get will stay the same. If you get Carer’s Allowance Supplement, you’ll still get payments twice a year. Before you move to Carer Support Payment, Social Security Scotland will write to tell you how your payments will work and when you’ll get them.
When will I be moved?
The move is taking place throughout 2024 and due to finish in spring 2025. You will receive a letter from the DWP letting you know when your move will take place. Social Security Scotland will also be in touch by letter to let you know what will happen during the move.
Following your move onto Carer Support Payment, you will receive another letter from Social Security Scotland. This letter will let you know:
· how much Carer Support Payment you’ll get; and
· what date your Carer Support Payment starts.
If you're aged 16 to 18
If you provide care for 16 hours a week on average, you may be able to get Young Carer Grant. You can apply for Young Carer Grant before Carer Support Payment. If you're already getting Carer Support Payment, you will not be able to get Young Carer Grant.
Will other benefits be affected?
If you get means-tested benefits such as Universal Credit, Carer Support Payment may affect the amount you receive.
The disability benefits of the person you care for should not be affected.
If you have any questions about the move or how the move may affect the support you receive, please get in touch on 0141 560 6000.
