A record number of young carers have received grant support from the Scottish Government. 

Latest figures show that over 3,700 receiving a Young Carer Grant in the last year. Since the payment was launched in 2019, over 12,000 payments totalling £4 million have been made, and since March 2023 almost 1.4m has been paid - almost 60 per cent more than the year before.

This includes 235 payments in South Ayrshire, totalling £75,531. A total of 95 applications were received in the authority, with 70 granted.

The £380 grant is only available in Scotland to those aged 16 to 18 who spends at least 16 hours a week on average caring for someone who gets a qualifying disability benefit.

Siobhian Brown, SNP MSP for Ayr, Prestwick and Troon, is encouraging people to apply for support.

She said: “This SNP Scottish Government is transforming more lives than ever before across my constituency, and will continue to do all it can as we work towards the First Minister’s goal of eradicating child poverty.

“With a social security system built on the principles of dignity, fairness and respect, we can make a real difference – alleviating hardship and supporting those who sacrifice so much to care for their loved ones.

“I am glad this support – which is unique to Scotland – is available to young carers across South Ayrshire, and I would encourage anyone who is not receiving this payment to check if they’re eligible."