More than 75,000 carers have received Scotland’s new Carer’s Allowance Supplement.

As part of Social Security Scotland, now run by the Scottish Government, Carers are getting an additional payment of £442 this financial year, in two payments of £221, equivalent of an extra £8.50 per week and an increase of 13% on the current Carer’s Allowance.

The next payment will be in December.

It brings the payment in line with Jobseekers Allowance.

201 carers in Orkney will benefit from the new allowance

Scotland now has control over a limited number of social security benefits. Scotland’s Social Security System Takes Shape

Shirley–Anne Somerville,Social Security Secretary in the Scottish Government  said:

“Carers make a vital contribution to society, which this payment recognises, putting an extra £442 in their pockets this financial year. When we take over the devolution of Carer’s Allowance, we will continue this increased rate which will also rise annually in line with inflation.

“This investment of over £30m a year addresses the unfairness that Carer’s Allowance is the lowest of the working age benefits. Bringing it into line with Jobseeker’s Allowance was one of the first commitments we made in light of our new social security powers.”