Tender
The Imperfect Art of Caring
Penny Wincer
Coronet
There are 9 million unpaid adult carers in the UK looking after their partners, parents or children, with very little support.
Austerity measures have taken a wrecking ball to public services and the chances of getting what help is available is generally as slim as a cigarette paper. The help that is available has to be fought tooth and nail for. Author: Penny Wincer really does know what she is writing about as twice in her life she has had to become a carer. Wincer spent most of her childhood caring for her mother. As now a mother herself: Wincer provides care for her autistic son.
‘Tender: The Imperfect Art of Caring’ is a book that has needed to be written for a long time, as it shines a light on the army of carers that seem to remain invisible in society. It becomes apparent in Wincer’s book that society has a lot to answer for as non-disabled perceptions of disability are usually wide off the mark with disabled people ’not being viewed as whole humans, worthy of being seen for their common humanity, but instead singled out because of their perceived deficits’ with disabled life being constantly evaluated by a non-disabled point of view.
‘How much energy could be saved if we didn’t have to argue and fight for our loved ones’ most basic rights?
How much sorrow could be avoided if we challenged the notion that to be disabled is among the worst things that could happen to you?’ writes Wincer, who tells her own story interspersed with the stories of other carers who provide support for their loved ones.
‘Tender: The Imperfect Art of Caring’ is a deeply empowering and emotional read that is both thought-provoking and jam packed full of wisdom without ever being patronising.
This book is a must-read and a few copies should be sent in the direction of No10 Downing Street.
9/10
Words: David Nobakht