Caring for someone in Scotland? Get the help and support you’re entitled to
Caring for someone – whether it’s a partner, parent, friend or neighbour – is one of the most important roles you can take on. But it can also be challenging. If you’re providing regular care to a veteran, or you’re a veteran providing care to someone else, it’s important to know about the available help for carers in Scotland. From financial support to practical services and emotional guidance, there are options designed to make your day-to-day life easier.
Here’s a clear, straightforward guide to what you can access right now.
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This guidance is for Scotland. There are separate guides for England and Wales and Northern Ireland.
Financial help for carers in Scotland
Many carers in Scotland miss out on money they’re entitled to. Even if you already receive benefits, you may still qualify for additional support, such as:
Carer benefits
If you live in Scotland and provide care for one or more people you might be able to get:
- Carer Support Payment
- Scottish Carer Supplement
- Carer Additional Person Payment
These provide regular financial support and can open the door to other benefits.
Carer’s Credit
If you care for someone for at least 20 hours a week, you may be eligible for Carer’s Credit.
This is a National Insurance credit that helps protect your State Pension if caring means you’re not working or earning enough to pay National Insurance.
Your income, savings or investments do not affect eligibility.
Universal Credit
Universal Credit is a monthly payment to help with living costs. It’s paid monthly in most cases.
You may be able to claim if you:
- are on a low income
- are out of work
- cannot work due to caring responsibilities or health reasons
You may receive extra help from Universal Credit if you’re caring for someone for more than 35 hours a week who is in receipt of a qualifying disability benefit.
Pension Credit
If you’re over State Pension age and on a low income, Pension Credit can give you extra money to help with:
- day‑to‑day living costs
- housing costs such as service charges or ground rent
You may receive extra help if you’re:
- a carer
- severely disabled
- responsible for a child or young person
Checking your entitlement can make a real difference to your financial security.
Armed Forces Compensation Scheme or War Pension Scheme
It’s important to know that, if you are receiving AFCS or WPS payments, this can affect your eligibility or the amount you receive for other means-tested benefits.
Contact MoD Veterans Services if you need more advice.
Get an Adult Carer Support Plan or Young Carer Statement
In Scotland, you have a legal right to a Adult Carer Support Plan (ACSP) or Young Carer Statement. It’s free and anyone can ask for one.
This assessment looks at:
- how caring affects your life
- what support would help you
- your wellbeing and future goals
It can lead to practical help like:
- respite care (short breaks)
- equipment or home support
- access to local services
Contact your local council to request one. It’s a key step in accessing help for carers.
Veteran organisations that can provide help for carers in Scotland
You don’t have to face the challenges of caring alone. Several military charities offer practical help for carers, including financial guidance and emotional support.
SSAFA – the Armed Forces Charity
SSAFA – the Armed Forces Charity supports carers across Scotland.
Their Glasgow’s Helping Heroes hub is a VALOUR-recognised centre offering support in person or remotely.
They can provide:
- emotional and listening support
- help with benefits checks and other financial support
- help with social isolation
As part of the VALOUR-recognised support network in Scotland, they can also help you access wider support from providers across the system.
Poppyscotland
Poppyscotland provides lifelong support to veterans and their families across Scotland, including carers.
They can help with:
- financial assistance and grants
- advice on benefits and money worries
- mental health and wellbeing support
- employment and housing guidance
They also offer tailored support to help carers manage the challenges of everyday life.
Blind Veterans UK
Blind Veterans UK supports carers of visually impaired veterans with:
- specialist advice
- peer support groups
- practical guidance
Sight Scotland Veterans
Sight Scotland Veterans supports veterans with sight loss, and their carers, through:
- specialist care, housing and rehabilitation services
- support to maintain independence and quality of life
- social activities and community connections
- guidance and support for families and carers
Blesma, The Limbless Veterans
Blesma supports carers of veterans who have lost a limb or lost use of limbs or eyes and can provide:
- emotional support
- financial help
- expert prosthetics advice
- grants to assist with mobility and independence
The Royal British Legion
The Royal British Legion can provide:
- practical help
- financial guidance
- information about services for veterans and families
Need more options?
The GOV.UK veteran support directory allows you to search and filter organisations in one place. It’s a helpful tool for finding services that fit your situation.
Take breaks and look after yourself
Caring can take a toll on your physical and mental health. That’s why breaks, even short ones, are essential, not a luxury.
Through your local council or support organisations, you may be able to access:
- respite care
- day services
- short breaks funding
Looking after yourself helps you continue caring sustainably.
You’re not alone – support is out there
Caring can feel like a full-time responsibility with little recognition. But help for carers in Scotland is available to support you financially, practically and emotionally.
Whether you’re just starting your caring journey or have been doing it for years, reaching out for support can make a meaningful difference.
You deserve the right help, the right information and the chance to care without burning out.