Care Leaver Payment update

Important update for staff working with care experienced young people

You may be aware that the Scottish Government has recently introduced a Care Leaver Payment of £2,000 for young people as they move from care into adulthood and more independent living.

The payment will be made to those who are legally defined as looked after on or after their 16th birthday and leave care after 1st April 2026 (i.e. those who do not remain in continuing care) or those who leave continuing care after 1st April 2026.

The Scottish Government is providing full funding to all local authorities to deliver the Care Leaver Payment on its behalf.

This payment will sit alongside the broader package of support that is already in place for care leavers, which includes - but is not limited to - setting up home payments, Continuing Care and Aftercare Support, the Care Experience Bursary, and Council Tax Exemption for care leavers.

Staff should be aware that work is currently under way to plan how the payment will be administered in North Ayrshire, and further direction and information will be provided to relevant staff as soon as details are confirmed.

If you have any further questions in the interim, please contact CareLeaverPayment@north-ayrshire.gov.uk

Published July 20, 2026