Caring For You

I am the principal carer for our adopted Down’s Syndrome son, John-Paul, who will be twenty-one next month. John-Paul joined our family in 1986 at the age of 13 months. For the most part caring for our son has been a pleasure, he is a delightful chap and a joy and blessing to us all. However, John-Paul is quite severely mentally disabled and will never hold down a job or live independently; my task as his carer is 24/7 year in, year out. There is never an occasion when I don’t have to consider his needs, even if he is spending a weekend away with one of his sisters. I am happy to care for our son as he has enriched our lives so much, and what I give him is small in comparison to the amount of love we get in return.

I consider myself very fortunate when I compare myself to others whose job is much harder than mine. Many people have to undertake a nursing role which can be punishing physically as well as mentally. I was shocked to learn that an estimated 175,000 children, some still at primary school, are caring for their parents, often helping them with personal care, which no child should be expected to do on a regular basis. One can only feel humbled by children who devote so much of their time as carers when they should be enjoying normal childhood pursuits.

Until now the role of carer has been seen as a Cinderella occupation with very little status and recognition. Without us though, the health and social services would grind to a halt! The very least the Government can do is to appoint a minister whose responsibility is to ensure the welfare of the huge army of carers in this country, paying special attention to carers under the age of eighteen.

ITV News is running a campaign this week, together with Carers UK, to highlight the role of carers in the UK; hopefully it will bear much fruit!