Mayo to stand with family carers during National Carers Week
Heart of Gold campaign aims to support 17,500 family carers across the county
People across Mayo are being encouraged to show their support for family carers during National Carers Week as Family Carers Ireland launches its annual Heart of Gold campaign.
The week-long awareness initiative runs from June 8 to June 14, with Heart of Gold Day taking place on Thursday, June 11, highlighting the vital role played by an estimated 17,500 family carers across Mayo.
Family carers provide unpaid support to loved ones living with illness, disability, additional needs, mental health challenges or addiction, often balancing caring responsibilities with work, family life and personal commitments.
According to Family Carers Ireland, many carers experience disrupted sleep, financial pressures, social isolation and significant emotional demands while helping family members remain at home and within their communities.
Speaking ahead of National Carers Week, Michelle Moriarty, Community Support Manager with Family Carers Ireland, said family carers often need practical assistance rather than recognition alone.
“When we talk to family carers, what we hear again and again is that they are not looking for praise,” she said. “They want practical support, a break when they are exhausted, someone to listen when things become too much, and recognition of the reality of what they are carrying every day.
“Heart of Gold is a simple way for people in Mayo to stand beside them,” she added.
The campaign is being supported nationwide by Lidl Ireland, with customers able to purchase a €2 Heart of Gold pin or special flower bouquet throughout June in stores across the country. Mayo residents can support the initiative at Lidl stores in Claremorris, Castlebar, Westport and Ballina.
The campaign also encourages customers to support Family Carers Ireland through Lidl’s Deposit Return Scheme donation option, available year-round in participating stores.
National Carers Week aims to raise awareness of the challenges faced by family carers while recognising their essential contribution to families, communities and the wider healthcare system.