"Aontú calls for urgent help for unpaid carers." - Mc Causland
Speaking today, the Aontú representative for Upper Bann, Kieran Mc Causland, said “The plight of unpaid carers has largely gone unremarked. Yet, they provide a service that would cost the Westminster government millions to replace. Most are caring for a loved one and this emotional attachment is cynically taken advantage off by government departments because they know that carers will do their utmost to take care of their charges. This is in spite of their abysmal treatment from successive administrations.”
Mc Causland continued “£69.70 is the weekly allowance given to carers but if you work and take home more than £132, then your entitlement ends. In effect, working carers are unlikely to claim the benefit. This is in spite of the numerous extra costs that are a reality when caring for someone who may have complex needs. All carers must be properly funded.”
“For carers who are employed, their life is one of preparation before work and continuous care after they return home. Others cannot work because their charges require 24/7 attention. In either situation the carer is put under massive strain. This puts unpaid carers at risk of developing health issues directly attributable to this constant pressure. Pressure that is rarely alleviated by a `care` system that allows them little or no respite. Many can feel like prisoners in their own home. They are crying out for compassion. Unpaid carers need reliable and regular breaks. Proper resourcing of care would be cost effective - if a carer’s health breaks down then the state has to fund them and their charges. Carers need this help now, not if and when the Executive gets up and running again. If unpaid carers are unable to fulfil their roles then an already chaotic Health Service will be put under an even more pressure." concluded Mc Causland.
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