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Kevin Brewer, a dedicated homecare worker from Donemana, County Tyrone, finds himself trapped in a difficult situation. Despite his passion for his work, he is struggling to continue due to soaring fuel costs. Driving roughly 70 miles daily to visit clients, the recent increase in petrol prices has made it financially challenging for him to keep going. “I thought last week I was going to have to phone up and tell them I couldn’t go. I had to borrow money to pay for fuel,” he shared.
The ongoing conflict involving the US, Israel, and Iran has further pushed petrol and diesel prices upward. This has put immense pressure on individuals like Kevin, who rely on their vehicles to perform homecare duties. The Independent Health & Care Providers (IHCP) has expressed concern over the situation, urging authorities to provide urgent support to care staff to preserve these crucial community services. The Department of Health acknowledged the problem, noting that fuel price fluctuations continue to pose a significant challenge for the public and health and social care service providers, with government-wide discussions ongoing.
Kevin’s personal expenses highlight the strain many homecare workers face. Previously, he used to spend about £30 every two days on petrol, but this figure has now risen to £70. Despite receiving a mileage reimbursement of 20p per mile from his private employer, this does not cover the full cost, leaving him out of pocket. “I love my job. I love care work,” Kevin said, adding, “I just don’t know how much longer I’m going to be able to do it.” He is calling on politicians to intervene, warning that many like him are at breaking point. According to him, care workers are currently faced with an impossible choice: continue working at a financial loss or leave the profession altogether.
The issue extends beyond individual workers. The IHCP fears that rising fuel costs will lead to increased staff turnover, jeopardizing vital community care services. Homecare enables many vulnerable individuals to remain at home rather than entering hospital or residential care, and the loss of these workers would have wide-reaching implications. The IHCP emphasized, “We cannot afford to lose this workforce,” while also stating that the Department of Health is fully aware of the serious risks involved. Meanwhile, broader efforts to support households have been introduced, including a payment scheme for some families to assist with home heating oil costs, though many workers like Kevin do not qualify for this help. Kevin highlighted the harsh realities faced by himself and his colleagues, revealing how some are “scared to turn their heating on” and forced to make difficult sacrifices to afford fuel for work
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