In Ireland, 1 in 8 people over the age of 15 are family Carers. That is around 516,594 people in the country that provide regular unpaid care.
Since the arrival of COVID-19, these ‘’Informal Carers’’ have played a significant role in suppressing the virus and supporting the healthcare system. When the country’s services were shut down or curtailed, informal Carers continued to care around the clock to ensure that their loved ones stayed safe and happy at home and out of the hospital.
The number of informal Carers in Ireland is growing and the stress and pressure of it all can be quite difficult to cope with. It is important to know that Carers are not alone or forgotten. There are several amazing services and supportive networks here and ready to help:
- Family Carers Ireland
- HCA & Carers Ireland
- Care Alliance
This year for Carers Week we wanted to shine a light on the amazing work informal or unpaid Carers do, learn more about them, and do our part in raising awareness of these amazing people.
What Is An Informal Carer?
An informal Carer can be known by a number of names, family carer, carer, invisible carer, etc. There is not a set job description as it is an unpaid role.
An informal Carer can be anyone, from your partner, parent, family member, friend, or even a neighbour. They can be temporary or permanently caring for someone who has an illness, disability, or simply has care needs.
What Is It They Do?
An informal carer can provide various types of care and support. It can range from:
- Grocery shopping
- Paying bills for you at the post office or the bank
- Cooking
- Bathing
- Cleaning the home
Informal Carers help those who need them to be as independent, healthy, and comfortable in their own home as much as they can.
Making Life Easier at Home:
Over the past few weeks, we have spoken directly with families and carers on how the Uccello Kettle could help them at home personally and for the one, they care for.
Using the kettle can be a difficult and dangerous task to complete, this is why we love to hear their feedback on how the Uccello Kettle has offered safety, style and peace of mind for all.
I feel more at ease…
‘’The Uccello Kettle is very safe and very easy to use. I feel more at ease with it being used by my uncle who I care for, he has onset dementia and deteriorating vision. Seeing him use the kettle gives me peace of mind because it is safer to use.
It’s a beautiful kettle and is a game-changer for those with particular needs like arthritis, Parkinson’s, and anyone else with mobility issues.’’
Carol Noonan, Limerick – Cares for her Uncle, Liam
He’s able to make tea safely and independently…
”The Uccello kettle has been fabulous for both of us! Breanainn has gastroparesis
and one of the complications means that doing the smallest of tasks can take more energy than he has, even lifting a kettle could be too much! He is also visually impaired so depth perception is an issue with using a regular kettle. Lots of spills and potential for scalds.
With this kettle, he’s able to make tea safely and independently. I myself have Raynaud’s, which means I can lose circulation and feeling in my hands regularly and it can be very painful to pick up a full kettle. I am able to tip this kettle with one finger and it tips itself back into position safely, saving me from the usual pain. It also boils quite quickly and quietly which we also love! We’re delighted with this kettle, thank you, Uccello!”
Natasha Lambert, Louth – Carers for her partner, Breanainn
It gives him freedom and safety…
”My son is very shaky with an ordinary kettle. The Uccello gives him the freedom and safety to
independently make a cup of tea, as it just tilts into the cup. Highly recommend.”
Mary Diamond, Mayo – Cares for her Son, Gary
Here’s to you, our unsung heroes, our brave and mighty, our informal carers. Thank you for all of the amazing work and care you put into helping improve the lives of so many.
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