A Clare carer says an increase in financial support for people caring for their loved ones in the home, will make a significant difference to many families.
A Dáil motion presented by members of the Independent Group calling for the Income Disregard for Carer’s Allowance to be raised in Budget 2024 has been accepted by government.
The motion called for a €900 a week increase per household and at least €450 per week for a single carer in Budget 2024, as well as fundamental reform of the Carer’s Allowance scheme.
There currently are 1,256 people in Clare in receipt of a full-rate Carer’s Allowance, with a further 1,057 people in receipt of a half-rate Carer’s Allowance.
Shannon resident Marion Costello was a full-time carer for both of her parents until her father passed away last year and now continues to care full-time for her mother, who’s living with Alzheimer’s Disease.
She says family carers are a vital cog in the provision of community healthcare.
You can listen to the full interview with Marion below.
