According to the Northern Ireland Statistics and Research Agency, in a census conducted in 2021, almost 25% of the population in NI are living with additional needs. As it currently stands, there is no mandatory training for employed carers in Northern Ireland. With over 52,000 people living in northern Ireland with complex disabilities, the need for mandatory training and compassionate care is of the utmost importance for parents and the individual receiving the care. 

As a parent raising a 32 year old son with Autism and Global Developmental Delay, I have recognised the agonising effects of staff members' lack of training. Our vulnerable adults, the ones we love dearly and care for intensely, are left in the care of individuals, although well-meaning, do not have the necessary training to provide truly adequate and sufficient care.

As our special needs adults age and their primary carers pass away, these issues only escalate and require even more specialised attention. Currently the carers for our sons and daughters are not provided with the appropriate training or salary to reflect their important work. This situation is not only unfair to our loved ones but also to the carers who are expected to work without proper preparation.

That's why we are calling for a nationwide requirement that all carers of vulnerable adults complete a mandatory accredited training programme before they start their essential work. This training will not only allow for the necessary care our loved ones need but also recognise and adequately remunerate the incredibly important work these carers undertake daily

Achieving this needed change is of the upmost importance for parents and family carers as approach the end of their life. To know that their loved ones will receive the same love and attention they have received throughout their lives from qualified carers.

Don't we owe it to our vulnerable adults - and those who care for them - to provide the best possible care?

Help us prioritise accredited training for these carers, for the betterment of all parties involved, and overall, for society. Please, sign this petition and show your support for mandatory training of carers.