Undpaid carers urged to check their financial entitlement

It is estimated that there are around 35,000 unpaid carers attending college or university in Scotland.

The type of help they provide includes emotional, mental or physical support for a family member, friend or neighbour.

But many fail to recognise themselves as a carer, which could mean they are missing out on extra money.

There are three payments from Social Security Scotland that could help student carers during their studies. Carer Support Payment replaces Carer’s Allowance. Unlike Carer’s Allowance, it is available to more carers in education. Young Carer Grant and Carer’s Allowance Supplement are only available in Scotland.

Louise Reid, from the National Association of Student Money Advisors (NASMA) Board, said: “Students, alongside wider society, are consistently pushed to the limit financially from sources outside their control. The cost of housing, energy and food have all been consistently high and this hits student carers particularly hard.

“As caring responsibilities can limit or completely reduce any capacity for part time work to top up existing student funding, additional financial resources are vital.

“Carer Support Payment is an invaluable financial resource that can make the difference between continuing with studies or not. Being able to claim this benefit, whilst studying really makes such a difference to students who provide care.” 

To find out more, visit mygov.scot/carers or call 0800 182 2222.