Advantages of informal sector

Question 1

1:

Answer 1

Strengthens family life and social responsibility:
Thatcher: Welfare state created a ‘nanny state’ and stopped people from seeking support from relatives and friends
Makes people more resourceful and prevents the stigma of going into a home
Stops people from becoming institutionalised in a home and gives normality over their lives

Question 2

1 A03:

Answer 2

Demands of informal care fall mainly on women: As the role of primary carers women are expected to take care of family needs. Has a damaging impact on the lifestyle of women carers. In family women act as the absorbers of stress like an ‘emotional sponge’. This can not only lead to health problems but also ‘hidden poverty’ as they put other families ahead of their own needs. Balbo, welfare hangs together thanks to labour of women which is unpaid and undervalued

Question 3

2:

Answer 3

Promotes independence and self reliance:
New Right: Informal care stops people from becoming too dependent on the state
Creation of ‘CSA’ which attempted to make ‘absent’ fathers more responsible for their children
Saves the government and taxpayers money
Costs a lot more to keep an elderly person in a care home than own home

Question 4

2 A03:

Answer 4

May be unsatisfactory as the family lacks adequate resources: Lack skills and specialist equipment to provide suitable care. Could place risk those who need care and also the carers themselves as they may face injury. This situation is particularly damaging when care demands are placed on the young. This is unrecognised by social services and places a great strain on the lifestyle of the young, and can damage their education and employment prospects. Moreover, families are often left to ‘pick up the pieces’ when state care has failed