Archbishop calls for greater support for family carers
The Archbishop of Westminster, the Most Reverend Vincent Nichols, called for society to do more to support families who care for elderly or sick relatives.
Christian generosity towards care of the elderly and vulnerable "stands in contrast to some apparent prevailing attitudes in our society," Archbishop Vincent said in his homily during the annual Mass for the Sick at Westminster Cathedral on Saturday, which was attended by people with a variety of medical conditions, their carers, hospital chaplains and healthcare workers,
Referring to 'Care and Compassion' the recent Ombudsman's report on the care of the elderly, the Archbishop said: "Many have been very disturbed by the recent report of shocking neglect of the elderly in some of our hospitals, while in others, of course, they receive excellent care."
"Many too are deeply anxious that forthcoming cuts in public expenditure are seeming to fall, too easily and too quickly, on services due to the vulnerable and elderly," he said.
The Archbishop reiterated the recent statement 'A Call to Deeper Social Engagement' made by the Catholic Bishops of England and Wales which said: "We appreciate that extremely difficult decisions are being taken by central and local government, but we urge those responsible not to lose sight of the moral imperative of caring for those most in need, while acting fairly and impartially...The future of society crucially depends on the nature and quality of family life."
To read the homily text see: www.rcdow.org.uk