*** This letter is on behalf of my mum. ***
For those who knew her before dementia took hold, you will know that she always took an interest in what was happening in Guernsey and she was firmly against the introduction of GST.
Today, she can no longer attend marches, write letters, complete consultations, join discussions or post on social media. Dementia has taken that voice away from her. She is now 91 years old and lives in full-time residential care.
People like my mum are largely invisible in this debate, yet they will still be affected by the decisions made.
Even with States assistance, my mum still contributes over £3,500 of her own money every month towards her care. On top of that, are all the extras that make up everyday life: chiropody, haircuts, disposable underwear, clothing, toiletries, personal care items and the occasional treat, taking her to approx £4000 per month to find each month. Many of these extra items will become more expensive under GST.
Will there be additional support for elderly people in care and for the families already meeting these costs? Will care homes themselves face increased costs that are ultimately passed on to residents?
Before moving into care, Mum had to cash in her lifetime tenancy. Apart from her pension and the assistance she receives towards having somewhere safe to live, the small amount she had left is steadily disappearing. She and Dad worked hard all their lives and always hoped to leave something for their children. The reality is that, even without GST, there is unlikely to be anything left.
When people talk about GST, they often focus on workers, businesses and families. They should also remember the elderly, the vulnerable and those who no longer have a voice of their own.
My mum watches me work full-time while facing significant health challenges of my own, paying ever-increasing rent, and helping care for my autistic son. Like many families, we are already stretched. Every extra cost matters.
So when you hear that fewer people are attending meetings, consultations or demonstrations, please remember that there are many like my mum whose voices have simply fallen silent, not because they have changed their minds, but because age, illness or disability no longer allow them to be heard.
They still count. Their lives will still be affected. Their voices still deserve to matter
*** Posted on behalf of my mother, who can no longer speak for herself, but who will be affected by this. ***
Bella (not her real name)
