The Young Carer’s Act will come into effect in April of 2018. It is for young people in Scotland with caring responsibilities aged 16 to 17, or 18 and still at school.

Those who are not eligible for the Carer’s Allowance will be able to claim A Young Carer’s Grant (Autumn 2019) of £300 a year. At a later date (2020/21) there will be free travel for those in receipt of the Grant.

Meg Wright, Director of Carers Trust Scotland said:

“We are delighted that the Scottish Government recognises the important contribution that young carers make across Scotland. Many young carers have difficulty participating in the normal activities their peers can enjoy. The Young Carer Grant will help young carers to pursue more of their aspirations and reduce social  isolation through having the means to travel more widely.”

Nicola Sturgeon, First Minister of Scotland said:

“Young carers make an invaluable contribution to society. The additional grant and free bus travel, along with new legislation and our ambitious changes to the social security system, will help ensure they are treated with the dignity and respect they deserve.”

It is hoped that the range of measures put in place by the Scottish Government will reduce the isolation felt by many young carers and enable them to participate in activities which would otherwise be denied them.

The Carers Scotland Act 2016 will for the first time enshrine carers’ rights in law.