Introduction of new Carer Support Payment welcomed
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Aberdeenshire East MSP Gillian Martin has welcomed plans for a new Carer Support Payment which will be introduced next year.
The move comes after the First Minister Humza Yousaf announced more support for unpaid carers in his Programme for Government.
A roll-out will take place in November in Dundee City, Perth and Kinross and Na h-Eileanan an lar and the payment will then be rolled out on a phased basis from Spring 2024 and available nationally from autumn next year.
And unlike previous support, the payment will be available to unpaid carers who are studying full-time.
It will ensure better access to information on the wide range of support available and also mean a joining up with wider services.
Ms Martin said: “This new Carer Support Payment, delivered by the SNP Scottish Government, will ensure vital support is available to more unpaid carers than ever before in Aberdeenshire.
“Once rolled out fully next year, the benefit will be available to more than 80,000 carers, including 1500 who are at present unable to access support because they are excluded from DWP support as they are studying full-time.
“At a time of continued Tory cuts and significant cost of living pressures on households, the Scottish Government is determined to mitigate the effects of Westminster incompetence and deliver meaningful support to those who need it most.
“This is the 14th benefit provided by Social Security Scotland and reaffirms the SNP Scottish Government’s commitment to ensuring that those who care for the most vulnerable are appropriately recognised and able to access other opportunities in areas like education.
“This payment is a fundamental part of the First Minister’s plan to reduce poverty and support both carers and people who are cared for.
"I encourage everyone who is eligible in Aberdeenshire to apply for the Carer Support Payment when it becomes possible to do so next year.”
