Conference Proceedings: Care in a Changing World

Care, in all its forms, is the quiet foundation upon which societies are built. It is the work that sustains families, communities, and the social and economic fabric. In Ireland, the meaning and delivery of care have evolved dramatically over the past century, shaped by shifting demographics, economic transformation, migration, and changing social expectations. From the traditional image of multi-generational households and community networks to today’s complex system of professionalised services and digital supports, care has undergone a profound transformation that mirrors the broader story of Ireland’s social change.

How we understand and deliver care in Ireland today and into the future raises significant questions: what is it exactly? who needs it? who deserves it? who provides it and how should they be supported? For much of the twentieth century, care in Ireland was largely unpaid, unseen, and gendered. Women, particularly mothers and daughters, were the primary caregivers for children, older relatives, and those living with illness or disability. The State’s role was limited. As Ireland urbanised and entered a new economic era, this model began to strain under the pressures of mobility, employment, and changing family structures. 

We must re-imagine care as a central tenet of public policy, acknowledging the multifaceted nature of care, encompassing not only healthcare but also support for systems, families, communities, and individuals across their lifespan. By adopting an inclusive approach to care, we can address the diverse needs of individuals and communities while promoting principles of equity, solidarity, and sustainability. We need to move away from a “world in which carelessness reigns” and return to a “care-centric narrative”. These papers were originally presented at a conference organised by Social Justice Ireland on the theme: Care in a Changing World. 

Watch the CONFERENCE HERE.