71% of Irish Family Carers Face Financial Hardship, 48% Experience Severe Loneliness
A new report by Family Carers Ireland reveals 71% of 624,000 Irish family carers face financial hardship, with 48% experiencing severe loneliness. Many cut back on essentials and lack adequate support. The report urges government action, including increased allowances and better services, to address unsustainable conditions.
The State of Caring 2026 report, commissioned by Family Carers Ireland, reveals significant challenges for the estimated 624,000 family carers nationwide. Based on responses from 2,930 carers looking after at least 4,042 individuals, the report highlights financial pressure, inadequate services, poor health, and loneliness.
71% of carers struggle financially, with 49% of those in acute difficulty cutting back on essentials like food and heating. 29% are behind on utility bills, and 15% are in rent or mortgage arrears. Almost half, 48%, experience severe loneliness. Furthermore, 69% report that the person they care for lacks sufficient formal support, and 66% of those on waiting lists for public services have been waiting over a year.
Dr. Nikki Dunne of Family Carers Ireland urged the government to recognize home care as a core pillar of health and social care, ensuring income adequacy and funding robust services under a carer guarantee. Recommendations include abolishing the carer's allowance means test, increasing payments to €325 per week, making them tax-exempt, and introducing a cost of disability payment. Catherine Rossiter, a carer for her 12-year-old twins, Aoife and Eoghan, shared her daily struggles with financial pressure and the emotional toll of caring, emphasizing the need for tangible support beyond mere recognition.