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No Fair Deal For Carers

Tim Hodinott who cares for his father, Paul.

Tim Hodinott has been caring for his father, Paul, for the last 8 years. A former project manager in military safety, Tim was forced to retire from his job early as his father’s health deteriorated.

“I retired when I realised I couldn’t cope with my working life and caring for my father any more,” explained Tim. “Looking after him has become more and more onerous. In many ways I do not have a life; when you become a carer you can’t do the things you want to do any more.”

Paul, who is 94, recently had a stroke that has left him with limited mobility and Tim with extra pressure and caring responsibilities.

“I worry constantly about Dad falling over,” said Tim. “He insists on being looked after at home as he’s so unsteady. Fortunately, I’ve been on first aid and man handling courses through the Carers’ Centre which have helped me when I’ve had to deal with emergencies.”

Tim does manage to get to the gym 2 mornings a week before his father needs him. “Carers have to fit their own health needs in around the person they care for,” he said. “I get very little time to myself. Though I have family nearby, I don’t expect them to help as they have their own families and lives to lead. I haven’t had a holiday for a long time.”

Tim has enjoyed many of the activities and events organised by the Carers’ Centre, but as his father’s health deteriorates, it is no longer possible for them to enjoy days out together.

“As a carer, I receive £55.55 Carers’ Allowance each week for looking after my father all day every day. Nobody can survive on that – carers simply do not get a fair deal.”