Young Carer Grant pays out £1.3 million since launch

More than 4,000 payments have been made to young carers across Scotland since the benefit launched in October 2019.

Figures released today reveal a total of £1.3 million in Young Carer Grant payments have been made up to 31 July 2021.

Young Carer Grant is a payment of £308.15 made every year to 16, 17 and 18 year olds who care for people that get a disability benefit for an average of 16 hours a week or more.

Carers can decide how to spend the money, for example, a subscription to a video or music streaming service, new clothes or anything that helps them take a break from their caring responsibilities.

Young carers who previously received the grant and still meet the eligibility criteria can re-apply 12 months from the date of their previous successful application.

The statistics show a total of 3,260 young carers have received a payment, with 2,390 clients getting one payment and 870 clients getting two.

Overall, 99% of applications came from clients caring for one person, with less than 1% caring for two people.

Glasgow City has the highest percentage of applications (14%), followed by North Lanarkshire (8%) and Fife (7%).

To check eligibility and apply visit mygov.scot or call free on 0800 182 2222.