Unpaid carers are the invisible backbone of many UK households, dedicating their time and energy to support loved ones with disabilities, illnesses, or age-related needs. Recognising their vital role, the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has introduced a £327 monthly support payment. This financial aid is designed to ease the burden for carers who often sacrifice careers, income, and personal time to provide consistent care.
If you’re providing care to someone for 35 hours a week or more, this article explains exactly how the scheme works, how much you’ll receive, who qualifies, and how to apply.
Overview
| Topic | Details |
|---|---|
| Payment Amount | £327 every four weeks (£81.90 per week) |
| Eligibility Age | 16 years and older |
| Residency Requirement | Must live in the UK, Ireland, Isle of Man, or Channel Islands |
| Care Requirement | Minimum 35 hours of care per week |
| Earnings Limit | Net income must not exceed £151 per week |
| Backdating Option | Up to 13 weeks |
| Qualifying Benefits | PIP, DLA, Attendance Allowance, AFIP, and others |
| Application Platform | Social Security Scotland website |
| Added Perks | Carer’s Credits, benefit access, respite, support networks |
£327 Monthly Unpaid Care Payment
This payment is a dedicated financial allowance for unpaid carers who spend a significant amount of time supporting someone who receives a disability-related benefit. It provides £327 every four weeks, acting as a small but vital income replacement or supplement for those who have to reduce working hours or leave employment entirely.
The payment can be used however the carer sees fit—whether it’s helping with bills, groceries, transport, or even giving themselves a little breathing room.
Why This Payment Matters
Caring full-time often forces individuals to leave jobs or miss out on employment opportunities. According to Carers UK, nearly three-quarters of unpaid carers report that their financial wellbeing is impacted. This support payment is more than money—it’s a recognition of the time, stress, and sacrifices carers make.
It also reduces pressure on the NHS and social care system by keeping people at home and well looked after.
Who Is Eligible?
To qualify for this monthly payment, you must meet these conditions:
Age and Residency
You must be 16 or older and reside in the UK or certain associated territories like the Isle of Man or Channel Islands.
Care Hours
You need to provide care for at least 35 hours per week. Care tasks include:
- Helping with meals, dressing, or bathing
- Offering supervision or emotional support
- Assisting with medication or mobility
Income Requirements
Your weekly net income after tax and deductions must be £151 or less.
The Person You Care For Must Receive:
- Personal Independence Payment (PIP)
- Disability Living Allowance (DLA)
- Attendance Allowance
- Armed Forces Independence Payment (AFIP)
- Constant Attendance Allowance
Only one carer can claim this benefit for a single cared-for person.
How to Apply
Visit the Social Security Scotland website to start your application.
Gather Documents
You’ll need:
- Your National Insurance number
- Recent payslips or bank statements
- Details of the person you care for
Fill in the Form
Answer questions about your income, caregiving responsibilities, and the person you care for.
Submit and Wait
After submission, most decisions are made within 4–6 weeks. A confirmation letter or email will follow.
Payment and Backdating
You’ll receive £327 every four weeks. Some carers can request weekly payments of £81.90 instead, depending on what suits their budget.
If you recently became a carer but didn’t know about the scheme, you can backdate your claim for up to 13 weeks. This is especially helpful if your caring duties started suddenly or unexpectedly.
What Else You Can Get
This protects your National Insurance record, which impacts your future State Pension.
Council Tax and Housing Help
Your local authority may offer Council Tax discounts or housing benefits based on your caring responsibilities and income.
Universal Credit and Pension Credit
You may also qualify for these depending on your overall household income.
Mental Health and Respite
Many local organisations offer counselling, carers’ groups, and even short-term breaks for unpaid carers.
James from Dundee
James, 42, left his full-time retail job to care for his father after a stroke. With no income and rising bills, James applied for the £327 monthly carer payment. Within four weeks, he was approved, and also learned he qualified for Carer’s Credit and a Council Tax reduction.
“Without this support, I don’t know how we’d manage. It’s not just the money—it’s knowing someone recognises what I do,” James said.
FAQs
How much is the DWP carer payment?
£327 every four weeks or £81.90 per week.
How many care hours are required?
You must provide at least 35 hours of care per week.
Can I work while receiving this payment?
Yes, but your net income must be under £151 per week.
Can the payment be backdated?
Yes, claims can be backdated for up to 13 weeks.
Where do I apply for the carer payment?
Online via the Social Security Scotland website.
