Stories

Sat, 18 Apr 2026

Sat, 18 Apr 2026 I'm a carer but I can't afford to go to work because of fuel prices

The conflict in the Middle East has caused rapid price rises for both petrol and diesel.

* Domiciliary care worker Kevin Brewer can't afford to do his job, despite loving it.
* Rising fuel costs are forcing him and colleagues to choose between work and financial stability.
* Industry body IHCP calls for urgent action from the Department of Health to support staff through the crisis.
* The average price of petrol in Northern Ireland is 154p per litre, up from 124.8p pre-conflict.
* Home care workers are the lowest-paid professionals in the health and social care system.
* The IHCP warns that fuel increases will lead to a rise in staff turnover figures and potentially undermine community services.
* A support package approved by Stormont ministers provides £100 payments for households with incomes below £30,000 or certain benefits.