I'm getting confused.
Were Mr and Mrs C both really ill at the same time?
In which case they needed someone in a hurry to look after the child, someone nearby.
If both were ill at the same time then how did one manage to drive 4/5 hours to Durham?
If they were not ill at the same time then one could have looked after the child?
I'm sure that they could have got food deliveries too. I know it's difficult but it is possible with perseverance. Or a relative could shop.
How will the VAT cut be funded?
Keeping Dementia Sufferer Occupied
but it looks as if you're even more so!!