The Young Carer Grant is a £305.10 payment available on an annual basis for 16, 17 and 18-year-olds who spend an average of 16 hours a week caring for someone who receives a disability benefit.

Those who have already had a payment are able to apply again if a year has passed since they received their money.

Shirley-Anne Somerville, social security secretary, said: “Young carers play a vital role in the lives of many people across Scotland and I am glad we can use our social security powers to provide them with the extra support that they deserve.

“As we approach the time where many young carers will once again become eligible for the payment, I strongly encourage them to re-apply if they still meet all the eligibly criteria and for new young carers to apply for the first time.”

Up to 31 July 2020, Social Security Scotland had paid out a total of £490,052 to 1,710 young carers across Scotland.