Social Security Experience Panels - Scottish Carer's Assistance: visual summary

Further views on the Scottish Carer’s Assistance proposals

General views on Scottish Carer’s Assistance proposals

Some survey respondents and interview participants gave positive feedback on the proposals. They mentioned that they made them feel valued, recognised and respected.

Many survey respondents noted the experiences of carers with underlying entitlements and how unfair they felt it was that they are not eligible for the changes proposed. They said they do not have access to carers benefits, supplements, concessions and discounts.

A few survey respondents stressed the importance of widely advertising Scottish Carer’s Assistance proposals and their rules.

A small number of respondents noted that clear information and simplified processes regarding these benefit changes, their new rules and their eligibility criteria should be put in place.

Quote from panel member:

“It must be more widely advertised and simpler to understand if you qualify. Many don't go near a carers centre because it is mostly for older people.” (survey respondent)

Effects of SCA proposals on different groups

Many survey respondents and interview participants held negative views on how carers of state pension age would not be eligible for the changes proposed as part of the Scottish Carer’s Assistance.

A few interview participants mentioned that the proposals and plans around Scottish Carer’s Assistance would improve children’s rights and wellbeing for young carers and also for carers who have children.

A few interview participants mentioned that carers from ethnic minorities and different religions can be impacted diversely by the SCA proposals because of cultural differences, ideas about what constitutes being a carer and language barriers.

Some interview participants thought the proposals would have an impact of reducing inequality. However, a few participants highlighted that the eligibility criteria are still restrictive to many carers.

A few raised concerns about circumstances which may impact on a carer’s eligibility for Scottish Carer’s Assistance. These included for example carers who also need care due to their long-term conditions or disabilities.

Quote from panel member:

“I’m one of the ones that falls into the gaps, because often the main carer is needing care themselves […] it’s actually all relevant, because I’m a disabled person who is caring, but if I get a carer, more gets taken off me. And the kids are having to do things that they shouldn’t have to be doing at 16 and 17…” (interview participant)

Impact on rural and island communities

Many interview participants noted that carers who are located in rural and island communities have extra costs because the various key services they need are not near where they live.

A few interview participants noted the lack of carers groups/networks and various services for carers and the cared for people in rural and remote areas.

Quote from panel member:

“…caring for someone in rural areas costs a heck of a lot more than caring for someone in a town. I think for people in rural and remote locations should get an additional supplement because of the cost of travelling everywhere to do their caring.” (interview participant)

General views on caring work and payments for carers

Many survey respondents and interview participants perceived their caring work as replacing the caring work that public services should be carrying out.

Many also stated that their unpaid caring work saves governments and public services a vast amount of money.

Many survey respondents and interview participants stressed that the current value of Carer’s Allowance payments is too low and does not cover the costs of living.

Many also requested to be paid minimum or real living wage that covers a basic standard of living.

Quote from panel member:

“I think that the carer role is a vital one to society. Many people do it through a sense of family obligation. Regardless, this results in a cost saving to the government and the taxpayers. The Social Care system would simply collapse if it weren't for carers...” (survey respondent)