Still life
His room downstairs.
Her room upstairs.
Handed over at the lift,
he escorts her to entertainment,
sits on the sofa at the back,
arm around her neck
as in their Geaumont days.
Loving her stiff half-smile,
hint of serenity.
The way you look tonight
He sings along, taps
a rhythm on her shoulder,
knocking on her closed door.
Always looking for a way in
- photos, pets, poetry.
She used to be an artist;
wall to wall canvases
in a disposed-of-home.
In art therapy on Mondays,
she chews the paintbrush bristles,
slips pastels down her socks,
doesn't wave at her husband
framed in the doorway.
By Valerie Fry
Latest updates
Press Release
Autumn budget reaction from Carers UK
26 November 25
The Chancellor has earmarked £75 million over the next three years to put right the failures that led to the Carer’s Allowance overpayments scandal. Yesterday’s commitment to reassess cases where averaging of earnings could have reduced overpayments is a vital step towards addressing the injustices carers have faced for far too long.
Press Release
Unprecedented changes for carers as Government responds to Carer’s Allowance overpayments review recommendations
25 November 25
It’s a landmark day today for the carers’ movement now that the Government has responded to the independent review of overpayments by Liz Sayce OBE.
News
Carers Rights Day 2025
20 November 25
Carers UK Chief Executive Helen Walker shares a message to mark the start of Carers Rights Day 2025.
Press Release
Over a third of carers struggling to make ends meet don’t know where to go for financial advice
20 November 25
Unpaid carers, who are at greater risk of financial hardship, need better access to financial advice, guidance, as well as support to navigate the social security system.
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