Care worker crisis: Fuel costs threaten vital services

Domiciliary care worker Kevin Brewer is at risk of losing his job due to unaffordable fuel costs. He drives approximately 70 miles daily between clients, and recent surges in petrol and diesel prices have made it unsustainable. Brewer has had to borrow money to cover his fuel expenses, stating, "I can't afford to go to work." This situation highlights a growing crisis within the home care sector, where workers are 'out of pocket' for essential travel.

Industry body Independent Health & Care Providers (IHCP) has called on the Department of Health to intervene, emphasizing the risk of staff turnover and the potential collapse of community care services. The IHCP notes that rising costs are forcing many care workers to consider leaving their profession. The Department of Health acknowledges the impact of fuel costs and is engaged in "wider ongoing engagement across government."

Exacerbated by the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, which halted about 20% of the world's oil trade, fuel prices have sharply increased. In Northern Ireland, petrol prices have risen from an average of 124.8p per litre to 154p, and diesel from 132.6p to 188.1p. Brewer's own fuel costs have more than doubled, from £30 every two days to £70, with his 20p per mile reimbursement insufficient.

While a support package of £100 for households with incomes of £30,000 or less was approved, it is not directly applicable to all affected care workers like Brewer and is not expected until summer at the earliest. Many care staff are experiencing extreme financial pressure, leading them to cut back on heating and even food. This precarious situation is forcing many, including Brewer and his colleagues, to contemplate leaving their chosen profession for roles in nursing homes or other sectors, despite their dedication to care work.