Current status: Answered by Shirley-Anne Somerville on 28 August 2024
To ask the Scottish Government what support is in place for young carers below the age of 16 who do not yet qualify for the Young Carer Grant, and what its position is on whether such support is sufficient.
We want to ensure there is appropriate support for young carers so that they can be children first and foremost.
Alongside Young Carer Grant the Scottish Government funds non-cash support through the Young Scot Young Carers Package. It is available to young carers aged 11-18 and provides tailored discounts and opportunities including high value e-vouchers, wellbeing boxes and vouchers for family days out.
Also, under the Carers Act 2016 all young carers have a right to a young carer statement. This involves an outcome based conversation about the young carer’s personal circumstances and must include information about the impact of caring on their wellbeing and whether the care they provide is appropriate.