Benefits for carers
Welfare Benefits Service
Address: Galashiels Area Office
Paton Street
Galashiels TD1 3AS
Tel: 01896 661 394
Fax: 01896 662 765
Welfare Benefits resources
The only benefit specifically for carers is Carer's Allowance although you may be able to claim other benefits if you are on a low income.
Carer's Allowance is a benefit paid to carers who are looking after a disabled person. The main rules which apply are as follows, and you must meet all these:
- you must be aged 16 or over
- you must be caring for someone who receives either rate of Attendance Allowance, the higher or middle rate of Disability Living Allowance care component, or Constant Attendance Allowance
- you must spend at least 35 hours a week caring for the disabled person
- you must not be earning more than £95 per week (after certain expenses) if you are working
- you must not be in full-time education.
Making a claim
The claim form for Carer's Allowance is included in the pack DS700 available from the Department of Work and Pensions.
Find out more
You can also contact the Welfare Benefits service for more information.
