Who is a young carer?

A young carer in Scotland is anyone, aged under the age of 18 who cares, unpaid, for a family member or friend due to illness, disability, a mental health problem or an addiction.

Caring includes: 

• medical or nursing care, such as helping someone to take medication or applying dressings  
• personal care, such as helping to wash, dress or eat 
• practical support, such as taking a person shopping or to medical appointments, cleaning or accompanying them to social events 
• emotional support 

What is on offer?

A group of young carers from across Scotland shared their experience of caring and helped Young Scot to create a package of benefits to be offered to all young carers in Scotland. The aim is to support young carers to make the most of their leisure time, learn and feel more confident.

What does the package include?

The package includes brand new, exclusive offers including cinema tickets, discounted study guides, free first aid training and much more! The types of benefits may differ across Scotland, depending on where you live and what services are available there, however Young Scot are aiming to make a good range of helpful non-cash benefits available no matter where you live.

When does the package launch?

The full package is now available to all young carers aged 11 - 18 in Scotland, who have a Young Scot card. 

Which young carers can access the package?

All young carers, aged 11-18, are entitled to access the package of non-cash benefits. 

I'm a young carer, how do I apply?

To access the package you will need a Young Scot National Entitlement Card. All young people in Scotland, aged 11-26, are entitled to one. Visit the Young Scot Card information page to find out how to get your card.

Want to apply for the entitlements? Visit Young Scots guide for instructions on how to apply for the trial.

Find more information on the Young Carers campaign page.