Nominations Open for Netwatch Family Carer of the Year Awards

Pictured at the launch of the 2024 Netwatch Family Carer of the Year Awards are awards host and patron Miriam O'Callaghan with 2023 Netwatch Family Carer of the Year Breda Morrissey. PHOTO: Mark Stedman

Tuesday, 10^th September 2024: Family Carers Ireland is calling for nominations to recognise and highlight the extraordinary contribution made by family carers across the country with the launch of the Netwatch Family Carer of the Year Awards.

Now in its 17^th year, the event aims to honour all family carers while shining a light on the urgent need for greater recognition and support of those who go above and beyond in caring for their loved ones, often without support from the State.

Family Carers Ireland is encouraging the public to nominate a family carer before Friday, 11^th October ahead of a special ceremony on Thursday, 28^th November at the College Green Hotel.

Catherine Cox, Head of Communications and Policy at Family Carers Ireland, spoke about the importance of the awards: "Through the awards, we meet those who go the extra mile to provide comfort and security for their loved ones, often at a cost to their own dreams, careers and health. The stories we hear are both heart-wrenching and inspiring, showcasing the incredible strength of those who put others first. This year, we continue to highlight young carers and their families, sending a clear message that they need real tangible supports and services including respite and counselling."

Charity Ambassador and Awards host Miriam O'Callaghan urged the public to step up and nominate those deserving of recognition: "I am honoured to return as ambassador for the Netwatch Family Carer of the Year Awards. Family carers give so much of themselves, often without recognition, dedicating their lives to the care of others behind closed doors. These awards are our chance to say, 'thank you' and let them know they are seen, appreciated, and valued."

Netwatch Brand Ambassador and Irish rugby legend Mick Galwey emphasised the importance of recognising these sacrifices: "I’ve seen the dedication family carers show day after day, often without any acknowledgement. Whether it's a mother caring for a child with additional needs or a young carer supporting a parent, the commitment and love they show is truly inspiring. These awards offer us all a chance to give something back and to let these carers know we see their struggles and their strength."

Last year’s Family Carer of the Year, Breda Morrissey from Ballyvolane, Cork, reflected on the profound impact of receiving the award in recognition of the care she provides for her husband Timmy: "Receiving the Netwatch Family Carer of the Year Award was overwhelming. You don’t think about being recognised—you just do what’s necessary for your loved ones. But receiving this award made me feel seen, valued, and connected to a community who understand the challenges we face. It reminded me that we, as family carers, are not invisible, and that what we do truly matters."

Nominate someone you know today here or call the National Freephone Careline on 1800 24 07 24 to request a nomination form by post. Nominations should be submitted no later than Friday, 11^th October 2024. 

Family Carers Ireland is the national charity supporting the 500,000+ family carers across the country who care for loved ones such as children or adults with additional needs, physical or intellectual disabilities, frail older people, those with palliative care needs or those living with chronic illnesses, mental health challenges, or addiction. It provides a range of services and supports for family carers through its Carer Support Centres nationwide and through its National Freephone Careline 1800 24 07 24. See www.familycarers.ie for more information. 

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