Clare Adamson MSP for Motherwell and Wishaw has urged unpaid carers to check their eligibility for financial support from Social Security Scotland.
The call comes following the figures in the latest census, which show that there are 45,300 unpaid carers in North Lanarkshire.
Ms Adamson also warned that many people who care for a friend or loved one do not think of themselves as a carer. The MSP added that it was important to register with a local carers’ organisation for advice and support.
Earlier in November, Scotland's Carer Support Payment, which replaces Carer’s Allowance in Scotland, was rolled out across the country, expanding eligibility to those who are in full-time education, and introducing backdating for some applicants. This joins a suite of support for carers only available in Scotland, like the Young Carer Grant and Carer’s Allowance Supplement.
Carers in Scotland who already get Carer's Allowance will have their benefits automatically transferred to Carer Support Payment. Social Security Scotland will write to people to let them know that their award will be moving.
Ms Adamson said:
"The nationwide rollout of the Carer Support Payment is a big moment for Scotland.
“There are 45,300 unpaid carers across North Lanarkshire and that figure is likely an underestimate.
“Unpaid carers are performing critical roles in our community; it is a difficult and demanding role. I want to ensure that no one is missing out on financial support that they are entitled to.
"The SNP developed Social Security Scotland with the principles of dignity, fairness and respect in its founding principles. The new Carer Support Payment improves on Carer’s Allowance by making those in full time education eligible and introducing backdating for some applicants.
“So if you are caring for someone – a neighbour, friend, or loved one – please check your eligibility for extra support through Social Security Scotland. And ensure you are registered with a carers’ organisation.”
You can apply for Carer Support Payment using the online form, on the phone, by post, or in person.
Find out more about Carer Support Payment online at mygov.scot/carer-support-payment or call Social Security Scotland free on 0800 182 2222.
As a Carer, you may need support to help you in your caring role. North Lanarkshire Carers Together recognises that as a Carer you may require a variety of supports to sustain you in your caring role and they offer a wide range of services to assist regardless of whether you are new to caring or have been providing unpaid care and support for a number of years.
North Lanarkshire Carers Together: Forgewood Community Centre, 49 Dinmont Cres, Motherwell ML1 3TT
Phone: 01698 404055
Email: enquiries@carerstogether.org
Website: carerstogether.org
Lanarkshire Carers is a resource for carers across Lanarkshire to access information, advice and a range of direct support services to support them in their caring roles.
Lanarkshire Carers Centre: Hamilton, Ground Floor Left Princes Gate, 60 Castle Street, Hamilton, ML3 6BU
Phone: 01698 428090
Website: lanarkshirecarers.org.uk
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