Nominations open for LIDL family carer of the year

Nominate someone you know today at www.familycarers.ie

Family Carers Ireland has announced the launch of this year’s Lidl Family Carer of the Year Awards.

Now in their 18th year, the awards seek to recognise the dedication and commitment of family carers across the length and breadth of the country who go above and beyond caring for their loved ones, often without sufficient support from the State.

Last year Monaghan woman Lucy Connor was named the Ulster Young Carer of the Year. She helps care for her autistic brother and had taken on extra responsibilities since her father became ill.

Lidl will be the title sponsor of the awards for the first time this year, the company has pledged to raise €1,000,000 as part of the 3-year partnership with Family Carers Ireland.

The deadline to nominate a family carer is Friday, October 10 2025 ahead of the awards ceremony on Thursday, November 27 at the College Green Hotel, Dublin.

Head of Communications and Policy at Family Carers Ireland Catherine Cox said the awards are a “powerful reminder" of the work carried out by Ireland’s 500,000+ family carers.

"Every day, we hear their inspiring and often selfless stories of providing care and supporting their families. Too often, they do so without access to vital supports and services which should be provided by the State," she said.

Meanwhile charity Ambassador and awards host Miriam O’Callaghan is encouraging the public to nominate a friend or family member.

"The work and support of family carers often goes unnoticed and underappreciated.

"These awards are an important opportunity to truly recognise and value the unseen care that is provided behind closed doors in homes right across the country.”

Nominate someone you know today at www.familycarers.ie or call the National Freephone Careline on 1800 24 07 24 to request a nomination form by post.