Young Carers across North Ayrshire and Scotland who are not in receipt of Carer’s Allowance are being urged to apply for an SNP Government grant.
Between its introduction in October 2019 until 30 April this year, £71,384 was paid out to 235 young people in North Ayrshire alone, with some receiving the payment three times.
A total of 2,490 applications were approved in 2021/22 across Scotland, up 200 from the previous year.
The Young Carer Grant, which is unique to Scotland as it was designed and introduced by the SNP Government, was increased from £308.15 to £326.65 from 01 April this year.
The payment is available for 16-18 year-olds who spend an average of 16 hours caring for a person or people in receipt of a disability benefit. As long as someone remains eligible, they can apply on an annual basis.
Minister for Social Security Ben Macpherson MSP said:
“The dedication shown by young carers in Scotland is remarkable and I am pleased that we can help to recognise their important contribution by offering extra financial support through the Scottish Government’s Young Carer Grant.
“At a time when many young people are leaving school and taking advantage of new opportunities, it is right that we recognise for many people aged between 16 and 18 those chances are impacted by their caring responsibilities and the time they devote to loved ones.”
Kenneth Gibson MSP added:
“It’s great to see that 235 young carers across North Ayrshire are benefitting from this grant, and I hope it gives them something for themselves.
“How you spend the Young Carer Grant is up to you. Whether you use your money for clothing, a holiday or anything else, it’s just for you and entirely your decision what you spend it on. It is a small way of showing support and appreciation for the invaluable work that you do.
“If you are a Young Carer, please visit www.mygov.scot/young-carer-grant to find out if you are eligible and apply today. You can also phone Social Security Scotland free on 0800 182 2222, Monday to Friday between 08:00 and 18:00.”
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