A new benefit is to be made available to more unpaid carers across Scotland.

National advice service, Advice Direct Scotland, is encouraging carers to apply for the Carer Support Payment, which is gradually replacing Carer’s Allowance.

From Monday, November 4, people living in 19 additional local authority areas will be able to apply.

This includes the two cities with the largest populations - Glasgow and Edinburgh.

Social Security Scotland, the organisation in charge of the new benefit, is offering £81.90 per week, or £327.60 every four weeks, for those providing at least 35 hours of care to a family member, friend, or neighbour.

Advice Direct Scotland is also informing carers of recent rule changes that extend eligibility to include more student carers.

Since June, the benefit has been available to carers aged 16 to 19 in full-time advanced education, those aged over 20 in full-time education at any level, and carers in part-time education.

Some carers aged 16 to 19 in full-time non-advanced education, such as those still in school, are now eligible.

Carers, especially full-time students, who were eligible from the start of the benefit introduction, can apply for backdated payments.

To receive these payments, they need to apply within 13 weeks of the benefit becoming available in their area.

If they miss this deadline but have a valid reason, they may still be able to receive backdated support.

Conor Forbes, policy director at Advice Direct Scotland, said: "Unpaid carers make a vital contribution to our communities, and it’s important they don’t miss out on the financial support they’re entitled to.

"Often, people don’t see themselves as carers because they view their role as just helping a family member or friend, not realising that these tasks are part of formal caregiving.

"Others may have gradually taken on a caring role as the person they support’s condition has slowly worsened.

"We urge anyone who might be eligible to check if they can apply, including full-time students who are not eligible for Carer’s Allowance.

"Help is available for anyone who feels worried or confused.

"At Advice Direct Scotland, we offer a wide range of free services to everyone in Scotland, regardless of personal circumstances."

The Carer Support Payment was first introduced in Perth & Kinross, Dundee, and Na h-Eileanan Siar (Western Isles) in November last year, before being extended to Angus, North Lanarkshire, and South Lanarkshire.

In August, it was further expanded to Aberdeen, Aberdeenshire, Fife, Moray, and North, East, and South Ayrshire.

The benefit is now being made available across the rest of Scotland.

Carers can check their eligibility and apply for the Carer Support Payment here.