First Minister Nicola Sturgeon has announced a range of new benefits for young carers on a visit to Dundee.
There are 44,000 young carers in Scotland aged between 11 and 18 who will now be eligible for a new package of discounts and opportunities.
Ranging from discounts at certain stores and leisure venues to free cinema tickets and CV advice, the benefits in the Young Scot project have been designed by carers themselves.
It is the first element of a wider package of support announced in September 2017 by the First Minister that also includes the forthcoming Young Carer Grant and free bus travel for recipients of the grant.
First Minister Nicola Sturgeon visited Dundee Carers Centre to launch the package on Wednesday.
She said: “This government has always been committed to improving carers’ rights and providing them with the support and extra help they deserve.
“We want as many young carers as possible to access these discounts and opportunities which will enable them to enjoy themselves and look after their own health and well-being.
“I would encourage young carers to sign up through the Young Scot website to make the most of these offers.”
Thomas’ smile says it all! He’s at the launch of the @YoungScot Carers package @Dundee_Carers with @NicolaSturgeon and @JoeFitzSNP. More pics and updates to follow later ❤️ @BaldragonAcad @Baldragon_HT @ThomasF68331587 @BaldragonParen1 @TraceyS111
Thomas you absolute star ? pic.twitter.com/QQvwl6YA3T— Young Carers @ Baldragon Academy ❤️ (@baldragoncares) June 12, 2019
Louise Macdonald, chief executive of Young Scot said: “Young carers make an extraordinary contribution to individual lives and our communities.
“So we are delighted to be able to support young people with caring responsibilities across Scotland through a package co-designed and piloted directly with them.
“The fantastic range of additional discounts and opportunities will support young carers aged 11 – 18 to care for those important to them, develop as young people and to make the most of their free time.”
