Wicklow Carers Urged To Have Their Say Ahead Of Budget 2027

There's an urgency to get carers to engage their local TDs and senators to have a greater understanding of the realities of caring for a loved one

Family carers in Wicklow are being encouraged to get along to upcoming town hall meetings to ensure their voices are heard in the run-up to Budget 2027.

The events are being organised by Family Carers Ireland as part of a nationwide push to get carers talking directly to their local TDs and senators about the day-to-day reality of caring for a loved one — and what needs to change.

For carers in Wicklow, the nearest options are:

• Monday, 31st August, 11am — Royal Marine Hotel, Dún Laoghaire
• Monday, 14th September, 11am — Westgrove Hotel, Abbeylands, Clane, Co. Kildare

Both are within easy reach for carers travelling from around the county, and organisers are keen for as many Wicklow voices as possible to be represented on the day.

Why It Matters

With Budget 2027 on the horizon, family carers are calling for real action on the pressures they face every day — from struggling to make ends meet, to being locked out of respite care, to the toll caring takes on their own health and wellbeing.

The meetings will also look at longer-term issues like future care planning and supported decision-making, with carers pushing for a move away from Ireland's current crisis-driven approach to caring, towards something more proactive, joined-up and built around the person being cared for.

The Numbers Behind The Campaign

Family Carers Ireland's latest State of Caring report paints a stark picture of what carers are dealing with nationwide:

• 71% struggle to make ends meet
• 75% have never accessed respite care
• Almost half experience severe loneliness

What Carers Want To See In The Budget

Among the key asks expected to be raised at the meetings:

• Abolition of the Carer's Allowance means test
• An increase in the weekly carer payment to €325
• A higher Carer's Support Grant
• Better access to regular, appropriate respite care

"Family Carers Deserve To Be Heard"

Sharon Foley, CEO of Family Carers Ireland, said the town halls give elected representatives a direct line into the realities of caring in their own constituencies.

"Family carers across Wicklow are supporting loved ones through illness, disability, and additional needs, often with very little support themselves. This town hall is a unique opportunity for elected representatives to meet family carers in their constituency and hear about the realities of caring and the changes needed to better support them and their families," she said.

"Decisions made in Budget 2027 will directly affect families in this community, many of whom are already struggling without adequate financial support or even the chance to take a break. Family carers deserve to be heard by the people elected to represent them, and we are calling on local TDs and senators to attend, listen, and stand up for the changes carers need."

How To Get Involved — Wicklow carers interested in attending either meeting can register at www.familycarers.ie.