This lockdown is a doddle compared to the almost nine years I spent being a full-time carer, with one free week every two months; Limited social contact and very restricted movement, and rarely the question “How are you?”. Remember to look after our carers during this pandemic.

Last time I checked, the Carer’s Allowance was a tenner more than Job Seeker’s. At €230, it’s the only social welfare payment that one has to actively work for. Few #carers will complain but it’s a constant struggle to survive on this sum. #carergiving

The only bonus (a bittersweet one, at that) to being a fulltime carer is having a free travel pass. The island’s your oyster! Well, assuming you can forward plan and you’re not broken by the time your 1-in-8 or 1-in-6 week “respite” arrives. #Caregiving

If they’re lucky, most carers offer their psycho-emotional and practical support because they want to. Hence complaining in the job is a bit of a no-no (although I’ve been guilty of it). #caregiving

Across Ireland, over 100,000 men and women of every age (down to teens) are fulltime carers to others less abled, mentally and/or physically. #caregiving

If they’re lucky, someone - a mother or father, a grandparent, a child, children, a lover, a husband or wife- is cared for with great precision, dignity, affection and love, in one’s one home. Surely all anyone can ask for? #caregiving

Perhaps post-Covid19, a more compassionate Ireland will truly know and value the work of these 100,000-plus carers and put in place further necessary supports? And then raise the fucking allowance to the €350 we magicked out of the air for people left hurting by the pandemic.