Without any doubt, these are the carers in this world, whether in the home or by volunteers, or care workers from agencies or social services departments. All have difficult and at times very unpleasant jobs. The family carers have the additional anguish of watching the sometimes unbearable suffering of their loved ones.
Having for a large part of my life been involved with Multiple Sclerosis sufferers and Downs Syndrome children, I am very well aware of their needs and the help they’ve been given by family, friends and professional carers. At one point in my life I was myself the recipient of much needed help in the home organised by the N.H.S., for which I am eternally grateful, the lovely girls they sent having got me back on my feet and restored to health. I would like to think that their pay matched their commitment for the very difficult jobs with which they’re faced. I am afraid it doesn’t.
We are now living longer, but sadly unhealthier lives. In the future, much more care in the home will be needed from these dedicated people and I only hope there will be enough to go round. I doubt it.
The Honours System is of course a mockery in my eyes and those of a considerable proportion of our population. Thinking people will know that the true honours should go to these unsung heroes without whom we would be in a parlous state.