Support coping with rising living costs
Young People
Growing up comes with its own challenges and the rising cost of living can make things even harder.
Whether you're in school, starting out in work, or caring for someone at home, support is available to help you manage daily costs and plan for your future.
In this section you will find:
- Support with school, college and daily expenses
- Young Scot
- Support for young carers
- Jobs, training and career support
- Health, wellbeing and housing
Support with School, College and Daily Expenses
Free School Meals and Clothing Grants - help with the cost of school meals and uniforms for eligible families.
Education Maintenance Allowance (EMA) - weekly payment for young people aged 16–19 who stay in education.
Free Bus Travel for Young People - free nationwide bus travel for young people aged 5–21 with a valid National Entitlement Card or a Young Scot Card.
Young Scot
Young Scot App - access discounts, rewards, and proof of age with the Young Scot National Entitlement Card and app.
Support for Young Carers
Midlothian Young Carers Project - support for young people aged 5–25 who help care for a family member due to illness, disability, mental health, or substance use.
Young Carer Grant - an annual payment for carers aged 16–18 who are not receiving Carer’s Allowance.
Jobs, Training and Career Support
Job Start Payment – a one-off payment for 16 to 24 year olds who have been on certain benefits for six months or more to help with the costs of starting a job.
Jobs and Vocational Training for Young People - find local job opportunities, training programmes, and employability support.
Foundation Apprenticeships - combine school learning with hands-on work experience in a real-world setting.
The Kickstart Scheme - paid work placements for young people aged 16–24 on Universal Credit.
Health, Wellbeing and Housing
Free Sanitary Products - access free period products in schools, community venues, and online.
Counselling for 10–18 Year Olds - free mental health support and counselling for young people.
Housing Advice for Young People - guidance on housing options, homelessness prevention, and tenancy support.