Care: Everything you need to know about new Sheridan Smith and Alison Steadman drama

The film portrays the heartbreaking impact of dementia
Natasha Sporn9 December 2018

New BBC One drama Care is a heartbreaking film about the impact of dementia on a small family and the health service.

Led by Alison Steadman, Sheridan Smith and Sinead Keenan, the emotional short promises to both break your heart, and warm it at the same time.

Here’s everything you need to know about Care…

What is Care about?

Emotional: Sheridan Smith in the BBC short film
BBC/LA Productions/Dan Prince

The 90-minute film is a one-off insight into caring for a loved one with dementia while grappling with the health service, funding and private sector care homes.

In the first few minutes of Care, Mary suffers a stroke while driving her grandchildren home. The children are fine but so destructive is the stroke that Mary is left needing intense rehabilitation. We also see the sudden onset of dementia, which sees her lose her ability to speak coherently as well as perform basic household functions such as making a cup of tea.

Mary can no longer care for herself and so, when discharged, her daughter Jenny puts her in a home before deciding to care for her herself at her home, which she pays to have adapted. The single mother of two loses her job because of the time off while her ex is less than helpful and willing. Her sister, Claire, appears selfish and cold but we soon see another side completely as the daughters band together for the best possible outcome of care.

Leads: Alison Steadman, Sheridan Smith and Sinead Keenan
BBC/LA Productions/Tony Blake

Who stars in Care?

Alison Steadman plays Mary, while Sheridan Smith and Sinead Keenan play Jenny and Claire.

When is it on?

Care airs Sunday December 9 at 9pm on BBC One.

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