Dad, 84, ‘under awful stress’ as son’s care package set to end

Dad, 84, ‘under awful stress’ as son’s care package set to end

Alphie Lonergan, 84, has been the main caregiver for his two adult children, Ronan and Donall, both in their 40s, who live at home with him. The pair have significant learning disabilities, relying on a care package from their local health trust. However, this support is now set to conclude, causing concern for the family in rural Loughgilly, County Armagh.

The care hours were reduced from three hours daily to just one in March 2024, and will soon be fully withdrawn. Alphie described the strain, emphasizing his physical resilience but mental exhaustion. “Thank goodness I’m physically fit, but mentally, I’m under immense stress,” he said, fearing the challenges ahead.

“Donall doesn’t get up until the carer arrives—you can’t lift a man in his 40s out of bed and get him standing without assistance,” Alphie added. He highlighted the son’s meticulous routines, such as brushing teeth three times and checking laces six times before being ready for the day.

The Southern Health Trust acknowledged the family’s hardship, expressing regret over the stress caused. They cited staffing shortages as the reason for the care package reduction, particularly in rural regions. “We continue to explore options to sustain the service, including adjusting rosters and collaborating with other teams,” the trust stated in a recent release.

Despite efforts, no additional staff have been available. Alphie’s two daughters offer some support, though they too face pressure. “They’ve been thrust into caregiving early, balancing jobs and family,” he noted, explaining the strain on their own lives. The father also struggles with disrupted sleep due to Donall’s nocturnal habits, which involve moving between rooms and closing doors late into the night.

Earlier this year, it was revealed that some social care workers missed out on a pay increase meant to prevent strikes. While doctors, nurses, and auxiliaries received the Real Living Wage, homecare staff in independent sectors were excluded. This has left Alphie and his family uncertain about future support. According to the 2021 Northern Ireland Census, the situation reflects broader challenges in the sector.