Carers welcome cash support at Christmas

The second payment of Scotland’s new Carer's Allowance Supplement was made to the majority of carers on 14 December, and we’ve been hearing about the difference it has made.

This was the second payment of the supplement, paid twice a year, by Social Security Scotland

Carers who received DWP Carer’s Allowance received up to an additional £442 from the Scottish Government this year – this is equivalent to a 13% increase on the Carer’s Allowance from the UK Government.

Social Security Secretary Shirley-Anne Somerville said:

“Carers make an invaluable contribution to Scottish society. Addressing the unfairness that Carer’s Allowance is one of the lowest working age benefits by introducing Carer’s Allowance Supplement was one of the first commitments we made in light of our new social security powers.

“We are delighted to have successfully introduced and delivered Carer’s Allowance Supplement to eligible carers across Scotland – making sure the second payment reached the majority of carer’s bank accounts before Christmas. Christmas can cause financial stress for many people, but for carers relying on Carer’s Allowance, it can be a particularly difficult time.

“We recognise carers' invaluable contribution and in the 2019/20 Scottish Budget we have committed to raising Carer’s Allowance Supplement in line with inflation by 2.4 per cent, meaning next year’s two lump sums will be £226.20 each.”

Shona Moyes, 56, from Edinburgh, is a carer to her 18 year old son Gregor who has complex physical and learning disabilities.

She said:

“I was forced to give up a well-paid job to care for my son. This has been both physically and emotionally demanding and has had a huge impact on the financial wellbeing of my family.

“For the Scottish Government to recognise this and increase Carer’s Allowance is great news for me and all carers. And to introduce the Carer’s Allowance Supplement and implement it quickly is most welcome.”

Danielle Fiddes (36) from Aberdeen, a carer to her young autistic son, said:

“The carers supplement means so much to me, and my son, as it shows the Scottish Government recognise the difference carers make. Receiving the payment at this time of year is a huge help. It gives me peace of mind that my children will be able to have a good Christmas.”

David Wallace, Chief Executive of Social Security Scotland, said:

“We are continuing to work hard to establish this new public service. We are delighted to have made our second round of Carer’s Allowance Supplement payments successfully.

“The feedback we are getting from carers on the service that we are providing - and what this benefit means to them - reinforces our passion and enthusiasm. It demonstrates that we are getting it right and truly treating people with dignity, fairness and respect.”