Information for adult carers

Caring can have a big impact on finances with many carers being forced to cut down their working hours or leave paid work altogether. The costs of living can also be higher for carers who may have additional costs related to food, heating or equipment for the person they care for.

Carers of East Lothian can support carers and the people they care for to understand their financial options and to claim the benefits they are entitled to, they can assist with completing forms, give advice on maximising income and discuss your options if you think you might have to give up work to care for a friend or family member.

East Lothian Council  financial inclusion team can also help boost the income of those affected by cost of living pressures. The team offers free, impartial and confidential advice and support to all local residents.

Carer support payment

Carer Support Payment became available across Scotland from November 2024. It replaces Carers Allowance in Scotland and is money you can get if you provide care for someone and meet certain eligibility criteria:

• you are over 16 and usually live in Scotland
• you provide care for 35 hours or more a week, this includes if you provide care all day every day
• you don’t earn more than £196 a week after tax, National Insurance and expenses
• the person you care for gets certain disability benefits

Find out more and information on how to apply here Carer Support Payment