The Future of Disability Services - Week 8 - Clare FM

The Future of Disability Services - Week 8 - The Future of Disability Services % Clare FM

Welcome to this week’s episode of The Future of Disability Services on Clare FM.

The findings of a survey, undertaken by Family Carers Ireland, show that family carers continue to face significant financial pressure, inadequate access to services, poor health and wellbeing, loneliness, transport barriers and uncertainty about future care arrangements.

The State of Caring 2026 report made recommendations that set out the key actions needed to better recognise, support and sustain family carers.

Caring for a loved one at home is a journey that can begin at any stage of life.

It may initially involve helping an older parent or relative with shopping, assisting with meals and medication management but this role can grow and intensify over time.

For others, their caring role can arise suddenly due to the birth of a child with special needs or if a spouse or family member becomes ill.

Rachel MacManus is an artist and the mother of a child with a disability. Like many, Rachel believes the word ‘carer’ is a contentious one….