Starting November 4, 2024, unpaid caregivers in Scotland can access the new Carer Support Payment, which will replace the current Carer’s Allowance provided by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP).
Administered by Social Security Scotland, this payment increases financial assistance to those who provide unpaid care to individuals with disabilities or chronic illnesses, offering a boost in support from the previous system.
Here’s everything you need to know about the payment, eligibility criteria, and application process.
Overview of the Carer Support Payment
The Carer Support Payment provides £81.90 per week, or £327.60 every four weeks, for individuals who dedicate a minimum of 35 hours per week to unpaid caregiving.
This increase from the previous weekly payment of £76.75 under Carer’s Allowance reflects the Scottish government’s commitment to strengthening support for carers.
| Feature | Carer Support Payment | Carer’s Allowance |
|---|---|---|
| Weekly Payment | £81.90 | £76.75 |
| Monthly Payment | £327.60 | £307 |
| Duration of Care Requirement | 35 hours per week | 35 hours per week |
| Administrator | Social Security Scotland | Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) |
| Student Eligibility | Expanded to more students | Limited eligibility |
The program rollout began regionally and will be available across Scotland by November 4, 2024. Existing Carer’s Allowance recipients will be smoothly transitioned to the Carer Support Payment to maintain continuity of assistance.
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for the £327 Carer Support Payment, caregivers must meet the following criteria:
- Caregiving Hours: Provide a minimum of 35 hours of unpaid care each week.
- Care Recipient’s Disability Payment: The individual receiving care must qualify for a disability benefit, such as Disability Living Allowance (DLA) or Personal Independence Payment (PIP).
- Non-Means Tested: Eligibility is not affected by the caregiver’s income or savings.
- Student Eligibility: Young caregivers aged 16 to 19 in full-time non-advanced education (like secondary school) are now eligible. Students who met the criteria in November 2023 may qualify for retroactive benefits if they were in full-time study at the time.
Locations of Early Rollout
As of now, the Carer Support Payment is already available in select areas:
- Regions: Perth & Kinross, Dundee City, Na h-Eileanan Siar (Western Isles), North and South Lanarkshire, Angus, Fife, Aberdeen, Aberdeenshire, Moray, and North, East, and South Ayrshire.
The full national rollout will take effect on November 4, 2024, making the benefit accessible throughout Scotland.
Application Process
Applying for the Carer Support Payment involves a straightforward process through Social Security Scotland. Here’s how to get started:
- Visit the Social Security Scotland Website: Start by accessing the application form through the official website for Social Security Scotland.
- Gather Documentation: Ensure you have necessary documents, including proof of your caregiving hours and the care recipient’s disability benefits.
- Complete the Application: Fill out the application form accurately, providing details about your caregiving situation and the individual receiving care.
- Submit for Review: Once submitted, Social Security Scotland will review your application and may contact you if additional information is required.
- Await Confirmation: Upon approval, payments will begin, with deposits made every four weeks.
Applicants currently receiving Carer’s Allowance do not need to reapply; they will be automatically transferred to the Carer Support Payment program.
Key Takeaways
The new Carer Support Payment marks an improvement in support for unpaid carers in Scotland, offering enhanced financial aid and expanding eligibility to younger carers in full-time education.
The Scottish government’s transition to Social Security Scotland for this payment ensures a streamlined process that’s more accessible and responsive to carers’ needs.
If you’re eligible, the Carer Support Payment provides reliable assistance for the invaluable work you do as an unpaid caregiver, supporting both your financial stability and those you care for. For additional details or to apply, visit the Social Security Scotland website.
