It’s claimed Clare’s family carers are living down to the last cent on a weekly basis.
The newly released State of Caring 2026 report has found that 70% of carers are struggling financially.
The report featured responses from over 2,930 family carers nationwide and found that almost half are cutting back on food, heat and other essentials to make ends meet.
Respondents also reported issues with severe loneliness, with 32% stating they either had bad or very bad mental health.
Clare Family Carer Support Manager Fiona Hartigan says some of the personal quotes received during the survey were stark.
The survey also found that 75% of carers have never received respite and is calling on the Government to once again abolish the means test and increase the carer’s allowance payment to €325 per week.
Alexandra Knox from Bodyke, who cares for her daughter who has Epilepsy and suffers chronic seizures, says a fuel payment for those who cannot reasonably avail of public transport is urgently needed.
Listen to the full interview here
