Publication - Advice and guidance
Care Leaver Payment – Guidance for Recipients
The Scottish Government introduced the Care Leaver Payment on 1 April 2026 to help young people overcome financial barriers as they leave care and move into independent living. This guidance document is designed for young people who will get the payment.
3. Who will I get the payment from?
You will get the Care Leaver Payment from your ‘responsible authority’. This is the local authority looking after you on or after your 16th birthday. The payment will be discussed with you by your social worker as you start to plan for life after care or continuing care.
Contact
Email: careleaverpayment@gov.scot