WITH the rising cost of living causing sleepless nights for many there was some small glimmer of reprieve this week for carers. Minister for Social Protection, Dara Calleary TD, announced that the annual Carer’s Support Grant is being paid to over 147,000 carers nationwide. The grant, which stands at €2,000 per care recipient, is available to all carers providing full-time care to an older person or a person with a disability, regardless of their means or social insurance contributions. Carers – yet another cohort of unsung heroes who are propping up State services at great personal sacrifice – will get their payment in their nominated post office or bank account this Thursday. Importantly, the payment is exempt from income tax, PRSI, and USC, ensuring carers receive the full benefit. The news comes as a survey reveals that family carers face all sorts of hidden pressures, many of which are rarely spoken about. Almost two-thirds of respondents (63%) said they had felt overwhelmed and at ‘breaking point’ at least once in the past month. The survey also found that almost a quarter (24%) said they provide care 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Not surprisingly, two thirds also said caring had caused them to miss out on social activities, hobbies or holidays – with 35% missing out on time with friends or family. Almost half (46%) said they expect their caring responsibilities to increase within the next five years. While there’s no denying the government grant will provide a small financial boost, it’s nowhere near what carers deserve. What’s more, man hours and money aside, it is clear they should be receiving a whole range of other supports. Respite and some form of home help for starters; if one quarter of the 147,000 carers are on call 24/7 this is surely impacting their mental health and quality of life. A listening ear, some form of counselling or peer group support, is also vital. Family Carers Ireland offers these supports. But yet again we have to rely on a charity to step in and bridge the gap. For the month of June, Lidl customers can support FCI by buying Heart of Gold pins for €2, with 100% of proceeds going to the charity. So cost of living squeeze aside, dig deep if you can and support our carers. Their sacrifice cannot, and should not, go unrewarded.

Gentle giant back

THE gentle giants are back. If you’ve opened up WhatsApp or Instagram in the last weeks, chances are you’ll see countless photos and videos of basking sharks. Their arrival along our coastline has locals and visitors craning their necks, and rightly so. Not many sights are as breath-taking as the enormous but harmless creatures gliding calmly through our waters, mouths open wide for plankton rather than trouble. They bring a bit of wonder to our shores and a welcome excuse to slow down and appreciate what’s right on our doorstep. Of course, admiration should come with a bit of common sense. Keeping a respectful distance ensures these seasonal visitors can carry on undisturbed, and we can continue to enjoy their company.