Unpaid carers are the silent heroes of our communities, offering daily support to loved ones who are ill, elderly, or disabled. To acknowledge their vital contribution, the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has introduced a £327 monthly payment for unpaid carers. This support can ease financial strain and connect carers with helpful resources.
Here’s everything you need to know about this essential benefit — from eligibility rules to how to apply.
Overview
The £327 Monthly Unpaid Care Payment is designed for those providing full-time care without pay. Issued every four weeks, the payment helps with everyday costs like bills, travel, and household essentials. Let’s break down the key details.
| 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 Hours Required | At least 35 hours per week |
| Earnings Limit | Must earn less than £151 net per week |
| Backdating Option | Payments can be backdated up to 13 weeks |
| Qualifying Disability Benefits | Includes PIP, DLA, Attendance Allowance, and more |
| Application Process | Online via Social Security Scotland website |
| Extra Benefits | Carer’s Credits, financial aids, training, and support groups |
Purpose
Caring full-time often leads to job loss or reduced hours, putting a serious dent in personal finances. This payment acts as a small but important buffer. A Carers UK study found that over 70% of carers struggle financially — many dipping into savings or taking on debt.
By offering this support, the government also saves money by helping people stay at home rather than enter full-time care facilities or hospitals.
Eligibility
You must be 16 or older and living in the UK. There are slight variations in rules for residents of the Isle of Man or Channel Islands, but the majority of carers across the UK are eligible.
Care Hours
To qualify, you must care for someone at least 35 hours a week. Care can include:
- Assisting with personal hygiene or meals
- Helping with medications or mobility
- Providing emotional support or supervision
Income Rules
Your net earnings must be under £151 per week after tax, National Insurance, and work-related expenses. This ensures support goes to those most affected by income loss.
Who You Care For
The person you care for must receive one of the following benefits:
- Personal Independence Payment (PIP)
- Disability Living Allowance (DLA)
- Attendance Allowance
- Armed Forces Independence Payment (AFIP)
- Constant Attendance Allowance
If two people share care duties, only one person can claim this benefit.
Application
- Go to the Website
Start by visiting the official Social Security Scotland website. - Gather Your Documents
You’ll need your National Insurance number, bank details, and information about your care role. - Complete the Form
The form will ask about the person you care for, your weekly care hours, and your income. - Submit and Wait
Most decisions are made within 4–6 weeks. You can call their helpline if you need help at any stage.
Payments
Payments are made every four weeks (£327), though weekly (£81.90) payments are available for those who prefer it.
Backdated Support
You can request payments be backdated for up to 13 weeks — perfect for carers who recently discovered their eligibility or delayed applying.
Extras
Carers receiving the £327 monthly payment may also qualify for other support:
- Carer’s Credits: Protects your State Pension while you care full-time.
- Universal Credit or Pension Credit: May increase with carer status.
- Council Tax Discounts: Some councils offer reductions for carers.
- Breaks for Carers: Local charities or councils may provide respite programs.
- Support Groups: Reduce isolation and offer emotional and mental support.
- Training: Build skills or learn to balance care with future career plans.
The £327 monthly DWP care payment is more than financial help — it’s a lifeline. It helps carers maintain their own well-being while they support someone else’s. Whether you’ve been caring for years or just started, this benefit can make a real difference.
FAQs
How much is the care payment?
£327 every four weeks or £81.90 weekly.
How many hours must I care?
At least 35 hours per week of unpaid care.
Can I get backdated payments?
Yes, up to 13 weeks can be backdated.
What’s the income limit?
Your net earnings must be under £151 a week.
Where do I apply?
Apply online via the Social Security Scotland website.
