The Carer Support Payment (CSP) is a new initiative by the Scottish Government offering £327 every four weeks to unpaid carers who dedicate at least 35 hours a week to caring for someone with disabilities or serious health conditions.
This financial aid replaces Carer’s Allowance in Scotland and reflects an increased commitment to supporting carers’ essential role in society. If you’re a carer or know someone who is, this guide outlines how the payment works, who qualifies, and how to claim it.
£327 Carer Support Payment
| Topic | Details |
|---|---|
| Payment Amount | £327 every four weeks |
| Eligibility Criteria | Aged 16+, providing 35+ hours of care weekly for someone on qualifying benefits |
| Application Process | Apply online or via a paper form; automatic transition for Carer’s Allowance recipients by 2025 |
| Qualifying Benefits | PIP, DLA, Attendance Allowance, Constant Attendance Allowance |
| Income Limit | Earn less than £151 per week after deductions |
| Support Resources | mygov.scot and local advisers for application guidance |
This scheme aims to ease the financial strain on unpaid carers, enabling them to focus on caregiving while receiving much-needed monetary support.
What Is the Carer Support Payment?
The Carer Support Payment (CSP) is a benefit designed to assist unpaid carers in Scotland. It replaces the UK’s Carer’s Allowance and provides a higher payment of £327 every four weeks, compared to the previous weekly amount of £67.60 under Carer’s Allowance.
Objectives of CSP:
- Recognize the invaluable role of unpaid carers.
- Alleviate the financial challenges associated with caregiving.
- Provide consistent support to enable carers to maintain their well-being and focus on caregiving duties.
Who Qualifies for the Carer Support Payment?
Eligibility criteria for the CSP are specific but straightforward:
1. Age Requirement
- Must be at least 16 years old.
- There is no upper age limit, so older carers are also eligible.
2. Hours of Care
- Provide at least 35 hours of care weekly, which includes tasks like:
- Assisting with personal care (dressing, feeding, bathing).
- Emotional support.
- Managing medical appointments or administering medication.
3. Care Recipient’s Benefits
The person being cared for must receive one of these qualifying benefits:
- Personal Independence Payment (PIP)
- Disability Living Allowance (DLA)
- Attendance Allowance
- Constant Attendance Allowance
4. Income Limitations
- Your weekly income (after tax and allowable expenses) must not exceed £151.
How to Apply for the £327 Carer Support Payment
The process for applying for CSP is simple and accessible.
Step 1: Check Eligibility
- Visit mygov.scot to confirm your eligibility based on age, care hours, and income.
Step 2: Submit Your Application
- Online: Fill out the online application form available on the mygov.scot website.
- Paper Form: Request a paper form if needed.
Step 3: Provide Documentation
- You may need to submit:
- Proof of identity (e.g., passport or driving license).
- Evidence of the care recipient’s qualifying benefits.
- Income records, such as pay slips or tax returns.
Step 4: Seek Assistance
- Local advisers or support services can help you complete the application if you encounter difficulties.
Automatic Transition for Existing Carer’s Allowance Recipients
If you are already receiving Carer’s Allowance, you will be automatically transitioned to the Carer Support Payment by spring 2025. This ensures continuity without needing to reapply.
Additional Support for Carers
Beyond the financial relief of the CSP, carers in Scotland can access a range of resources to support their well-being:
1. Carer’s Allowance Supplement
- A twice-yearly top-up payment for those receiving Carer’s Allowance, continuing until the full CSP rollout is complete.
2. Respite Care
- Local authorities provide respite services, offering carers a break while their loved ones receive professional care.
3. Training and Peer Support
- Workshops and peer groups help carers build skills and connect with others in similar situations.
4. Rights Advice
- Organizations like Carers Scotland offer free advice on legal rights, benefits, and accessing support services.
Real-Life Impact of the Carer Support Payment
Anna’s Story
Anna, a 42-year-old carer, spends over 40 hours a week looking after her brother, who has cerebral palsy. Balancing caregiving with a part-time job has been financially and emotionally draining. With the new £327 payment every four weeks, Anna can cover essential expenses like transport, medical supplies, and therapy sessions for her brother. This support provides her with financial breathing room, allowing her to focus on caregiving without additional stress.
Comparing CSP with Other UK Benefits
| Feature | Carer Support Payment (Scotland) | Carer’s Allowance (Rest of UK) |
|---|---|---|
| Payment Amount | £327 every four weeks | £67.60 per week |
| Eligibility Criteria | 35+ hours of care, income below £151 | Similar criteria |
| Supplementary Payments | Carer’s Allowance Supplement | None |
| Transition Plan | Automatic transition by 2025 | Not applicable |
The Carer Support Payment is a landmark initiative designed to provide financial relief to unpaid carers in Scotland.
By offering £327 every four weeks, the program not only acknowledges the critical contributions of carers but also alleviates some of the financial strain associated with caregiving.
Whether you’re a new applicant or transitioning from Carer’s Allowance, understanding the eligibility criteria and application process is key to securing this vital support. Visit mygov.scot to begin your application or learn more.
