Ardclough mum is Kildare Family Carer of the Year

Family Carers Ireland, the national charity supporting Ireland’s family carers, is delighted to announce that this year’s Netwatch Kildare Family Carer of the Year is Aisling McNiffe from Ardclough. 

This prestigious accolade recognises the exceptional dedication and commitment of family carers across the nation who provide vital care at home for loved ones with additional needs.

Aisling is sole carer to her teenage son Jack who has a severe/profound intellectual disability and many complex medical needs which require 24/7 care. Jack was an inpatient for over 8 consecutive months in Crumlin Children's Hospital recently, with his mum by his side at all times supporting him, until he was finally able to return home in July just in time for his 18th birthday.

Aisling is a fantastic advocate for all family carers and people with disabilities, constantly raising awareness and highlighting the need for better supports and services through her membership of various committees, social media groups and advocacy work through the media.

Now in their 16th year, the Netwatch Family Carer of the Year Awards continue to pay tribute to the remarkable work of over 500,000 family carers in Ireland who care for 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.

As a society, it is vital that we truly recognise and acknowledge the contribution of family carers. They play a critical role in maintaining the wellbeing and dignity of their loved ones, enabling them to receive the care they require in the comfort and familiarity of their own homes. Collectively, family carers contribute a remarkable 19 million hours of unpaid care each week. If the State were to seek to replace this support, it would cost an astonishing €20 billion annually.

Family Carers Ireland says that while the awards provide an opportunity to shine a light on the often-hidden work of Ireland’s family carers, they also seek to underscore the importance of ensuring all family carers can access the essential supports and services they need care safely at home such as access to appropriate financial compensation, respite and therapies for their loved ones.

Grainne Tynan, local Community Supports Manager with Family Carers Ireland, expressed the significance of this award: "The Netwatch Family Carer of the Year Awards not only recognise the dedication and sacrifices made by every single-family carer, but also serve as a powerful reminder of the crucial role they play in our society. Their resilience, love and support are immeasurable. Their contributions are a testament to the strength of our community. Aisling McNiffe’s story reflects the commitment, love and hard work exhibited by family carers throughout the country.”

Mick Galwey, Netwatch Brand Ambassador, said: “When you hear the stories of family carers, you can't help but be moved by their commitment to going above and beyond for their loved ones every day. Sadly, this work is largely unseen and too often undervalued. Family carers truly deserve our support and recognition and to play some small part in helping to do that is very special to all of us at Netwatch.”