Introduced on August 19th, Carer Support Payment is now available to residents in South, East, and North Ayrshire. Carer Support Payment (CSP) is a new benefit designed to provide financial support to carers across Scotland. If you're caring for someone with a long-term illness, disability, or mental health condition, this benefit could make a real difference in your life. What is Carer Support Payment? The Carer Support Payment is a new benefit replacing Carer’s Allowance and is administered by Social Security Scotland. It’s intended to recognise the vital role carers play in our communities and provide them with the financial support they need to allow them to focus more on their caregiving role. Note: If you’re already receiving Carer’s Allowance, you will be transitioned to the new Carer Support Payment automatically, so there’s no need to reapply. Who is Eligible to Apply? You may be eligible for the Carer Support Payment if you meet the following criteria: You care for someone for at least 35 hours a week: The care you provide must be substantial and regular, and it must be for someone receiving certain disability benefits, such as Adult Disability Payment (ADP), Personal Independence Payment (PIP), Disability Living Allowance (DLA), or Attendance Allowance. You do not earn more than £151 a week: This is your take-home pay, after tax, National Insurance, and expenses. The income limit ensures that the benefit is targeted at those who most need financial support. You’re not in full-time education: If you’re in full-time education or receiving a student loan or grant, you won’t be eligible for CSP. However, you may be eligible if you study any course and spend less than 21 hours a week in class or doing coursework. You’re at least 16 years old: The benefit is only available to adult carers who meet the other eligibility criteria. How Much Will You Receive? If you qualify, you’ll receive £81.90 per week, or £327.60 every four weeks, for providing at least 35 hours of care to a family member, friend, or neighbour. How To Apply? Applications can be made online at: https://www.mygov.scot/carer-support-payment How CHAP Can Help At CHAP, we understand that navigating benefits and financial support can be overwhelming. That’s why we’re here to help. Our advisers can assist you with the application process, provide advice on eligibility, and help ensure that you’re getting all the support you’re entitled to. If you’re a carer and would like more information or need help applying for the Carer Support Payment, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. Our services are free, confidential, and designed to make your life a little bit easier. Call 030 0002 0002 or use the Live Chat feature on our website.

We are thrilled to announce that CHAP has been shortlisted for the prestigious ‘Charity of the Year’ award at the 2024 Ayrshire Business Awards! This recognition is a testament to the dedicated hard work of our staff, our Board and management team and the continued support of our donors, funders and community partners. Over the past year, we have continued to make significant strides in our mission to help restore hope and self-determination for our clients facing housing, welfare rights or debt issues. Being shortlisted for this award is not just an honour for us, but a celebration of everyone who has been part of our journey. We are incredibly grateful for your continued support and belief in our cause. As we await the final results, we remain committed to our mission of delivering a better standard of living for our communities and we look forward to achieving even greater milestones together. Thank you for being an integral part of our success story. If you, or anyone you know, is facing issues related to housing, benefits or debt, please call Freephone 030 0002 0002 or use the Live Chat feature on our website. All our services are FREE, confidential and impartial.