Extra Year of Support for Young Carers

Young carers in Scotland’s rural and island communities can now apply for the Young Carer Grant up to age 19, offering vital financial support for those balancing care with education, work, or life in remote areas.

The Scottish Government has announced that the Young Carer Grant, previously available only to 16–18-year-olds, is now extended to include 19-year-olds. This yearly payment of £390.25 is designed to recognise the contribution of young carers and help them access opportunities often missed due to their caring responsibilities.

For young people in rural and island areas, where access to services and opportunities can be more limited, this grant provides a flexible way to cover costs such as:

• Driving lessons and car insurance, crucial for those living far from public transport.
• Technology to support study or work, especially important where connectivity can be a challenge.
• Everyday essentials like clothing or leisure activities, giving carers a chance to enjoy life outside their caring role.

Who Can Apply?

• Applicants must spend at least 16 hours a week caring for someone who receives a disability benefit.
• The grant is open to those in education, employment, or out of work.
• It is not available to carers already receiving the Carer Support Payment.

In the last financial year, 4,135 payments were made – the highest since the grant’s launch in 2019.

Millie, a 19-year-old from Fort William, shared how the grant helped her pay for driving lessons and insurance:

“It’s absolutely brilliant that Young Carer Grant is up to the age of 19 now. It will definitely benefit a lot of young adult carers who don’t receive any financial benefits.”

Her story reflects the reality for many young carers in rural and island communities, where travel and access to services often require extra costs.

Social Justice Secretary Shirley-Anne Somerville said the extension ensures carers are treated with dignity, fairness, and respect:

“Young carers often miss out on activities enjoyed by other people their age – Young Carer Grant provides some support towards helping them do the things they like outside of their caring responsibilities.”

Young carers can check eligibility and apply through mygov.scot/young-carer-grant. Additional support, including wellbeing resources and short breaks, is available at mygov.scot/carers.