Unpaid carers across Lanarkshire are being encouraged to apply for a new benefit as it becomes available to more people. National advice agency Advice Direct Scotland is urging carers to prepare for the switch to the Carer Support Payment, which is gradually replacing Carer’s Allowance as part of a phased nationwide rollout.
From Monday, November 4, residents in 19 additional local authority areas, including the two largest cities, Glasgow and Edinburgh, will be able to apply in the final stage of the benefit’s introduction. Administered by Social Security Scotland, the new benefit is worth £81.90 per week, or £327.60 every four weeks, for those providing 35 hours of care to a family member, friend, or neighbour.
The Carer Support Payment was first introduced in Perth & Kinross, Dundee, and Na h-Eileanan Siar (Western Isles) in November last year, before being extended to Angus, North Lanarkshire, and South Lanarkshire. Conor Forbes, policy director at Advice Direct Scotland, emphasized the importance of unpaid carers in the community and urged those eligible to apply for the financial support they deserve.
Forbes highlighted that some individuals might not recognize themselves as carers because they see their role as merely assisting a loved one, not realizing it falls under formal caregiving. He also noted that full-time students who are not eligible for Carer’s Allowance should still check if they qualify for the new benefit.
Those already receiving Carer’s Allowance from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) will not be affected by the rollout as their awards will be gradually transferred to Social Security Scotland. The DWP will continue to issue Carer’s Allowance until the transition is complete, ensuring no interruption in payments, with recipients receiving the same amount.
The transition from the DWP to Social Security Scotland is expected to be completed by spring 2025. The new Carer Support Payment also offers the option to receive payments on a weekly basis, providing more flexibility to carers. Carers in Lanarkshire can check their eligibility and apply for the Carer Support Payment on https://www.mygov.scot/carer-support-payment.
Additionally, Advice Direct Scotland provides free services to help individuals assess their entitlement to benefits and offers support to those feeling worried or confused about the application process. With the introduction of the Carer Support Payment, unpaid carers in Lanarkshire have the opportunity to access vital financial assistance for their caregiving efforts.
In summary, unpaid carers in Lanarkshire are encouraged to apply for the new Carer Support Payment, replacing Carer’s Allowance. This additional financial support aims to recognise and assist the valuable contribution unpaid carers make to their communities. Application information and support are readily available to ensure carers receive the assistance they deserve, with a focus on a smooth transition process to access the new benefit.