Since its inception two years ago, 160 young people in North Ayrshire had received the Young Carer Grant, an annual payment of £308.15 for young carers in Scotland, by the end of July.
This means £48,592 was put in the pockets of these young people as a mark of appreciation for all the work they do caring for their loved ones.
The grant can be used for things like new clothes, driving lessons, holiday, or anything else the recipient might wish to spend money on.
Kenneth Gibson MSP said:
“Everybody deserves a break and none more so than young carers.
“The responsibility of caring for a loved one can be intense when you are older, but particularly during your teenage years, when you are dealing with exams and in a transitional phase in your own life, it’s important to have something for yourself.
“I know young carers across North Ayrshire and Scotland do what they do with love and we should all take a moment to recognise that. Through this payment, the SNP Government is showing them the appreciation they deserve.”
Applicants to the Young Carer Grant must be 16, 17 or 18 years old. However, those who were unable to apply before your 19th birthday due to the disruption caused by coronavirus (COVID-19), can still apply.
It is important to apply every year via Social Security Scotland online or by phoning 0800 182 2222 at no cost, on work days between 08:00 – 18:00.
Applicants must have been caring for 1, 2 or 3 people for an average of 16 hours a week for at least the last 3 months for either one or more persons.
If you care for someone for 35 hours or more a week, you may be able to get Carer's Allowance. You should apply for this once you've been paid Young Carer Grant. You will not be able to get Young Carer Grant if you're already getting Carer's Allowance.
ENDS
Comments