Barbara cares for her son Liam who has Down Syndrome, autism, an eating disorder and other complex medical needs. The family are at risk of becoming homeless and Barbara worries how Liam will cope
Family carers look after their loved ones in their home, often with little to no help from the state. RSVP's new series, Caring For The Carers, chats to family carers across the country to find out about the challenges they face.
Barbara gets up early each morning to prepare everything for Liam. She makes sure he is washed and dressed and also makes his lunch. Since Liam also has an eating disorder and is at risk of choking, his food requirements are very particular. “He goes to a day centre Monday to Friday. His transport was cut back in 2019, so we drive him there, it’s quite a distance away.
However, when Liam gets low it can be difficult on the whole family. “As his carer, it can be tough. When he’s in hospital or he’s not well, it is very hard for him. He is essentially non-verbal, so he can’t tell us what’s wrong.” The rate of Carer’s Allowance needs to be increased in line with the cost of living crisis, Barbara adds. “Our food and energy bills are increasing but our income is the same. When you think about it, the PUP was €350. Carer’s Allowance isn’t close to this and it’s means tested.”
Barbara says people don’t ask to become a carer, it is just something that happens. “You’ll either need a carer or you’ll become one.”
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