Jackie Baillie MSP is calling for more cash for carers.
By Democrat reporter
Jackie Baillie, MSP for Dumbarton, Vale of Leven, Helensburgh and Lomond, has called on the Scottish Government to top up the Carer’s Allowance Supplement this December to assist carers disproportionately affected by COVID-19.
In June, the Scottish Government funded a £230.10 additional Coronavirus supplement to the Carer’s Allowance – on top of the £230.10 already paid to recipients of the Carer’s Allowance. This meant the amount paid by the Scottish Government was effectively doubled.
For the 2020/21 period, there are 1,715 eligible recipients of the Carer’s Allowance Supplement payment in West Dunbartonshire. Similarly, in Argyll and Bute, 1,030 recipients are eligible for the payment.
Jackie Baillie said: “Carers do not receive anywhere near the recognition and thanks that they deserve for the work that they do. Throughout this year, carers have worked incredibly hard in unimaginable circumstances, ensuring that vulnerable people are supported and protected.
“We are now very much in the ‘second wave’ of COVID-19 and, as a result, carers will undoubtedly see their caring responsibilities intensify once again.
“There are thousands of carers across my constituency who I know would greatly benefit from a top up to their payment this winter. The Scottish Government must recognise the important contribution that carers make and this must be reflected in the financial support that they are given.”