UK PM Burnham steps back after father's death
Burnham's father Roy died from Alzheimer's without knowing his son had become prime minister.
Britain's Prime Minister Andy Burnham has cancelled his official engagements following the death of his father Roy. Roy was suffering from Alzheimer's and was unaware that Andy had become prime minister.
In an interview before taking office, Burnham spoke of his sadness that his father would not know of his son's achievement. In a major speech on social care reform, Burnham said he wanted to help 'my dad and the millions like him' facing the unfairness of the care system.
Watching his father's illness drives Burnham to reform how Britain supports elderly people.
- Alzheimer's
- Illness
- Andy Burnham, UK Prime Minister
- PM's role
Why it mattersA prime minister's personal grief is now shaping Britain's approach to social care for the elderly.
AustraliaNo direct Australian effect yet, but Burnham's care reforms could influence how other countries structure elderly support.
✓ Claims checked against the source. checked 10 d ago
