SDLP Foyleside Councillor Mary Durkan
Western Health & Social Care Trust has put together a programme of online events including virtual coffee morning with Carers NI.
Said Miss Durkan: “The theme of this year’s Carers Week, “Making Caring Visible”, is particularly important during the pandemic.
“It is often too easy to overlook this group of people, many of whom do not even recognise themselves as carers.
Informal carers are making personal sacrifices and ultimately saving state resources. Many of them are running the risk of suffering from burn-out, so it is essential that adequate support services are accessible.
“As a result of Covid 19, many carers have been confronted with extra pressures.
“The withdrawal of respite and routine support services, including home visits and day-care services, has led to difficult decisions for carers and families.
“Striking a balance between a day-job and caring responsibilities is never easy.
“During the pandemic, I heard from so many people who had the dilemma of choosing between financial security and the health and safety of a vulnerable person in their care.
“Workers were living in fear of bringing the virus home due to lack of safety measures and social distance in their workplace.
“Each carer’s individual story is unique. Many unpaid carers are elderly with their own health issues.
“Many young carers are balancing caring for a parent of sibling with school or studies.
“Some “sandwich carers” are currently working from home and balancing caring for a partner of parent with child-care duties and home-schooling.
“Anyone can find themselves assuming a carer’s role due to an unexpected change of circumstances.
“We must all work together to create care-friendly communities. Decision-makers and governments must respond to demographic trends and needs.
“Employers and schools and colleges must support carers by putting policies in place, such as care leave and flexible working.
“In short, we need proper care for carers,” added Ms Durkan.
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