19 October 2026

SDLP Foyle MP Colum Eastwood has offered his support to home carers ahead of a public meeting in Derry this week.

Unison has organised the meeting at the Waterfoot Hotel on Thursday 22nd October at 7.30pm.

It’s open to home care workers from across the North West. Family, friends and service users are also welcome to attend.

Foyle MP Colum Eastwood said:   

“Home carers play an important role in our society, but they are under growing pressure and have been repeatedly let down. A promise by Stormont to implement the real living wage was not delivered when other health staff received a rise, carers are being asked to do more in shorter periods of time and many are having to dip into their own pockets to cover rising fuel costs. Some are effectively losing money just to go to work.

“Our home care staff are incredibly dedicated and proud of the work they do. They go above and beyond to support older people and those with additional needs to live independently, and for many people that help is invaluable. For some, their daily visit from a carer may be their only social contact, and carers do everything they can to make that time meaningful. They deserve to be properly valued in the work they do.

“I would encourage home carers, their families and anyone who relies on these services to attend this meeting, share their experiences and make their voices heard. Stormont must recognise the contribution these workers make, deliver the promised real living wage and put proper support in place to help carers meet rising fuel costs. We cannot continue to take these workers for granted.”