Scots young carer grant benefit goes out to views

Scots are being asked for their input to the young carer grant, a new benefit which will be delivered by Social Security Scotland.

The grant will provide a £300 one-off payment, which can be applied for annually for young carers aged 16-17 (and 18 if still at school) with significant caring responsibilities. To be paid by autumn 2019, it aims to provide some financial support during a key transition period in young carers’ lives, to help improve their health and education outcomes as they move into the adult world.

It is estimated that the grant will offer support to approximately 1,700 young carers each year.

The Scottish Government is consulting on the development of the policy and regulations for the grant, to gather views on the policy and draft regulations and identify any gaps, issues or unintended consequences.

Views are also invited on the potential impacts of young carer grant on different groups and also on businesses.

Any organisation or individual with an interest is welcome to contribute, to ensure what is being proposed will meet the needs of clients in the Scottish social security system.

Click here to access the consultation. The deadline for responses is 10 December 2018.