"Before We Die": Wexford Carers Demand Disability Care Reform

For many ageing parents caring for an adult with an intellectual disability, one terrifying question lingers: what happens when they are no longer there to provide care?

With no formal long-term residential care planning in place for most families, the "Before We Die" campaign is stepping in to fight for nationwide reform. The campaign highlights the critical lack of emergency and planned residential care options for adults with intellectual disabilities when family carers become ill or pass away.

To push for direct action, the campaign is setting up county-based support and lobbying groups across Ireland. In Wexford, a dedicated WhatsApp group has already brought together 17 local families facing these exact fears, with organizers actively urging more Wexford families to join their ranks.

Local organizers have already reached out to Wexford’s Oireachtas members and plan to engage county councillors to secure support at both local and national levels.

Ahead of the Before We Die National Assembly on September 19 at The Helix (DCU), Wexford families are being encouraged to connect with the local group, share their experiences, and make their voices heard.

To join the Wexford family carers group or find out more about the upcoming National Assembly, contact the Before We Die campaign.