Mayo's Amanda McGuinness wins Family Carer of the Year award

Amanda McGuinness from Balla has been named the Mayo Lidl Family Carer of the Year 2025.

The awards recognise the remarkable commitment, compassion and strength of family carers who provide essential care to loved ones every day.

The Lidl Family Carer of the Year Awards celebrate those whose dedication and compassion make a difference in the lives of the people they care for.

They also serve as a reminder that behind every person receiving care is someone providing it, often quietly and without rest, recognition or access to vital supports and services which should be provided by the State.

Amanda cares for her autistic children with patience, strength and unwavering love.

She understands their needs deeply and works every day to make life easier and happier for them.

Alongside caring for her own family, she supports other parents by sharing what she has learned and promoting greater understanding of autism.

She provides practical resources and works with schools to help create environments where autistic children can feel accepted and supported.

Amanda’s empathy and dedication have made a lasting difference to families throughout her community and beyond.

She is a tireless advocate whose care and compassion reaches far beyond her own home.

Amanda is a regular columnist with The Connaught Telegraph.

Catherine Cox, Head of Communications and Policy with Family Carers Ireland, said: “Family carers are the silent supporters of so many households across Ireland. They juggle multiple responsibilities, often at great personal cost, driven by love.

"Too often, their work takes place behind closed doors, unseen, unsupported and unacknowledged. These awards are about visibility and respect for the vital work that they do.

"Amanda represents the compassion and resilience we see every day among family carers in every town and village. By recognising them, we are shining a light on all those who quietly care, who continue to give, and who deserve to know that their efforts are valued and understood.”

Since announcing their partnership with Family Carers Ireland at the end of 2024, Lidl has been supporting the caring community through the development of their Lidl Charity Champion programme.

One team member from every Lidl store and Regional Distribution Centre across Ireland has volunteered their time and energy to support Family Carers Ireland through a host of activities including planning and participating in store fundraising and fostering greater community engagement.

Christine McIntyre, Senior Partnership and Events Manager at Lidl Ireland, added: “At Lidl, we are proud to support Family Carers Ireland and to show family carers that we care back.

"Every day, hundreds of thousands of people across Ireland give their time, energy and love to support others, often putting their own needs last.

"Through the Lidl Family Carer of the Year Awards, we want to recognise their incredible dedication and remind them that no one should have to care alone.

"Amanda McGuinness is a wonderful example of the compassion and commitment that exist in homes and communities all over Ireland.”