Local MSP for the Linlithgow Constituency, Fiona Hyslop, has highlighted a change to the earning limit for Carers, meaning more unpaid carers in West Lothian could be set to benefit from a change in eligibility rules which came into effect on 6th April. There are currently 22,116 unpaid carers living in West Lothian.
The earning limit for the Scottish Carer Support Payment has increased from £151 to £196 per week – meaning an unpaid carer in West Lothian could earn £45 more a week from paid work after tax and other expenses and still be eligible for the payment.
Commenting Fiona said:
“I welcome this support for unpaid carers across West Lothian which means that carers who are already receiving Carer Support Payment will be able to undertake more paid work and still be eligible to receive this vital support.
“We know from the latest Census figures that there are 22,116 unpaid carers across West Lothian, and I would urge all of them to ensure they are receiving the support they are entitled to. You can check eligibility here – https://www.mygov.scot/browse/benefits
“The increase in this support will improve the lives of people across West Lothian and is an example of the Scottish Government using their powers to provide the support people really need.”
ENDS