A TOTAL of 1,780 carers across West Dunbartonshire are to benefit from a one-off payment.

The Scottish Government has revealed plans to invest £19.2million to provide further support to people in receipt of Carer’s Allowance during the coronavirus pandemic.

If approved by parliament, around 83,000 eligible carers across Scotland will get an extra £230.10 through a special one-off Coronavirus Carer’s Allowance Supplement in June.

Read more: Kind couple step up to the table to offer free food parcels

Gil Paterson, MSP for Clydebank, said: “Carers make an absolutely vital contribution to our society, and it’s only appropriate that their hard work is valued, and they are properly supported by the Scottish Government.

“This one-off payment will benefit carers who are on low incomes and already have some of the most intense caring roles, providing at least 35 hours unpaid care weekly to a disabled child or adult in receipt of higher-level disability benefits.

“This additional payment will be an acknowledgement to carers that we know they are providing vital support, and playing an absolutely crucial role in our collective efforts to slow the spread of coronavirus."