BUDGET 2016: Restoration of carers’ grant levels welcomed

There was never any such thing as the respite care grant to Shirley Thornton because she has never had the luxury, if it could be described as such, of using it for respite.

“I use it to run my car,” says, the mother-of-one who is caring full-time for her 86-year-old father and 82-year-old mother, both of whom have complex medical needs.

“With two largely immobile parents to care for, my young son, hospital appointments, emergencies, and everything else, my car is essential for keeping the show on the road.