What Young Carers are Entitled To

Young Carer Grant

The Young Carer Grant, provided by Social Security Scotland, is a yearly payment. 

The 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. 

With more responsibilities and less free time, many young carers don't get the same opportunities as their peers. This payment is for them to spend how they choose and it doesn't matter whether they are in school, further education or training, employed or unemployed.

How do you apply?

Social Security Scotland is taking applications via their freephone helpline on 0800 182 2222, by post or online.

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 which you can choose to receive every week, or every four weeks. 

Find out more about eligibility and how to apply for Carer's Allowance.

Young Scot's Young Carers Package

The Young Carers Package is part of the Scottish Government's commitment to recognising the contributions of young carers across Scotland. The package is completely free and includes digital vouchers, access to subscriptions and exclusive opportunities. Best of all, the treats change every week so there is always something new to claim, enter or apply for. The package is designed to support young carers to make the most of their free time and allow them to feel supported in the caring role.

Which young carers can access the package?

All young carers, aged 11-18, are entitled to access the package of non-cash benefits.

To access the package you will need a Young Scot National Entitlement Card. All young people in Scotland, aged 11-26, are entitled to one. Visit the Young Scot Card information page to find out how to get your card. Alternatively, you can speak to the South Ayrshire Carers Centre for support to access the package.

Free Access to Leisure

Young carers in South Ayrshire now have the opportunity to receive free access to Sport and Leisure memberships through South Ayrshire Council's Activ8 scheme.

Any young carer, aged 8 - 18, or 18 and in full time education, registered with South Ayrshire Carers Centre, can sign up to Activ8.

If you are a young carer and wish to apply for an Active8 membership, please contact South Ayrshire Carers Centre on 01292 263000 or email southayrshire.carers@unity-enterprise.com