Family Carers urged to speak out ahead of Budget 2027

Family Carers across Waterford are being encouraged to attend a town hall meeting next month to share their experiences and highlight the challenges they face ahead of Budget 2027. 

The event, organised by Family Carers Ireland, will take place at Brandon House Hotel in New Ross on September 1, at 11 am. 

It forms part of a nationwide series of meetings designed to allow family carers to engage directly with local TDs and senators about the support they need. 

With the Government preparing Budget 2027, family carers are expected to raise concerns about financial pressures, limited access to respite services and the impact caring responsibilities can have on their health and wellbeing. 

 Discussions will also focus on future care planning and supported decision-making, with campaigners calling fr a more coordinated and person-centred approach to supporting families and those they care for. 

The meeting comes as Family Carers Ireland's latest State of Caring report highlighted the significant pressures facing people caring for loved ones at home. According to the report, 71% of carers surveyed struggle to make ends meet, while 75% have never accessed respite care. Almost half reported experiencing severe loneliness. 

Issues expected to be discussed include abolishing the Carer's Allowance means test, increasing carer payments to €325, raising the Carer's Support Grant, and improving access to appropriate respite services. 

Jason Carroll, Carer Support Manager for Waterford, said family carers throughout the county continue to support loved ones while often receiving little support themselves. 

"Family carers across Waterford are supporting loved ones through illness, disability and additional needs, often with very little support themselves," he said. "This town hall is a unique opportunity for elected representatives to meet family carers in their constituency and hear about the realities of caring and the changes needed to better support them and their families."

He added that decisions taken in Budget 2027 would have a direct impact on carers and their families.

"Many are already struggling without adequate financial support or even the chance to take a break. Family carers deserve to be heard by the people elected to represent them, and we are calling on local TDs and senators to attend, listen and stand up for the changes carers need," he said.

Family carers wishing to attend the meeting can register through Family Carers Ireland.