An 84-year-old man in Loughgilly, County Armagh, serves as the primary carer for his two sons in their 40s who have severe learning disabilities. The sons, Ronan and Donall, live at home with their father, Alphie Lonergan.

A care package from the Southern Health Trust previously provided three hours of daily support for both sons. In March 2024, support for Ronan ended, reducing the time carers spent in the home. Donall's one-hour daily assistance to get up and dressed ends on Friday.

Alphie Lonergan stated he remains physically able but faces severe mental strain from the situation. He described challenges in managing Donall's routines, including multiple teeth brushing and lace checking before starting the day. Donall, who also has autism and obsessive-compulsive disorder, waits for the carer and stays up late at night, disrupting his father's rest.

The sons attend day centres in nearby towns during the day, but Alphie Lonergan handles all home care alone. He receives occasional help from his two daughters, who balance their own families and jobs.

The Southern Health Trust cited a shortage of social care staff, particularly in rural areas, for withdrawing the package. The trust stated it is reviewing rotas in Armagh and nearby regions, consulting multidisciplinary teams, and seeking staff for extra shifts, with no success so far.

In November 2024, a pay offer to Northern Ireland healthcare workers excluded independent sector homecare staff. Funding existed to provide them the Real Living Wage.

The 2021 Northern Ireland Census recorded 222,000 people, or 12% of residents, giving unpaid care. About 70,000 provided 50 or more hours weekly, up from 56,000 in 2011. Those aged 45-64 hold the most caring roles, with 3,000 children under 15 also carers.