Derry group launches campaign to address need for mandatory training and better pay for carers
Dayspring Special Community, a voluntary lottery funded group, caters for adults over 18 that need 24 hour care
A Derry based organisation for adults with profound learning disabilities has expressed concerns at the lack of mandatory training or adequate pay for carers.
Dayspring Special Community, a voluntary lottery funded group, caters for adults over 18 that need 24 hour care. It was set up in 2013 by Anne McCafferty and Carmel Craig when they recognised a gap in support for these individuals, seeking to empower them to participate fully in their communities.
The group has launched an online petition seeking support for their campaign for mandatory accredited training of carers before beginning work.
Since achieving charity status in 2023, Dayspring have helped members to develop skills using music, art, table top activities and floor activities. They have also identified a critical need for ongoing support after the loss of primary caregivers, and aim to create a community centred around family and friends.
The organisation’s focus is on communication, compassionate care and a warm and positive approach. “Relationship is key,” said Anne.
Anne is concerned at the “lack of regulation around training, recognition and pay for carers of adults with learning disabilities.” She is calling for a new law to address the lack of training or remuneration for carers that would ensure a good quality of life for these individuals.
“This will not just provide the necessary standard of care, but also recognise and adequately remunerate the work these carers undertake daily,” said Anne.
While acknowledging the understanding shown by Nigel Chambers of the Department of Health and efforts being made to update the current health and social care system, “our concern still stands around the lack of training provided for our carers,” said a spokesperson.
“Currently, the carers are not provided with the appropriate salary to reflect their important work. You cannot put carers in that have no training. It’s not fair to the carers - and you’re not going to attract any carers with the payment package that the government is setting out.”
Training of carers is vital for the quality of life of those with additional needs. Many parents fear “what will happen to my child when I am gone.”
To find out more about Dayspring Special Community or to add your voice to their campaign, CLICK HERE or go to Dayspring Special Community Facebook page