Family Carers Ireland has launched this year’s Lidl Family Carer of the Year Awards, now in their 18th year.

The awards, which are supported by new title sponsor Lidl, recognise the dedication and commitment of family carers across Ireland.

The public can nominate a friend or family member for the award until the deadline of Friday, 10th October 2025.

The awards ceremony will be held on Thursday, 27th November, at the College Green Hotel in Dublin.

A Celebration of Unseen Care Catherine Cox, Head of Communications and Policy at Family Carers Ireland, highlighted the awards as a powerful reminder of the work carried out by Ireland’s more than 500,000 family carers.

She noted that these awards are an opportunity to shine a light on the urgent need for more government support, including access to respite, vital therapies, and appropriate payments for carers.

Awards host and charity ambassador Miriam O’Callaghan is encouraging people to nominate someone they know. "The work and support of family carers often goes unnoticed and underappreciated," she said.

"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."

Lidl's Support This year marks the first time Lidl is the title sponsor, as part of its three-year partnership with Family Carers Ireland. The company has pledged to raise €1 million for the charity by 2027.

Maeve McCleane, Chief People Officer at Lidl Ireland, said the company is proud to support the awards, which "provide a special moment for families to come together and celebrate their loved ones."

Last year's winner, Sarah Dooley from Portlaoise, described receiving the award as a shock but a powerful reminder that the work of family carers is not forgotten.