Castlerea mother is named County Roscommon Family Carer of the Year

A Castlerea mother has been named the Roscommon Lidl Family Carer of the Year 2025.

Noelle Hennessy from Castlerea is a devoted mother who gives everything she has to her children.

She has built a loving and supportive home for her family, where each of her five neurodivergent children is encouraged to grow and thrive.

John, youngest, who is eight years old, is nonspeaking, requires constant care and attention, and Noelle spends her days travelling between appointments, schools and activities to ensure all her children feel valued, understood and supported.

Her love for them is unwavering. Even during Storm Eowyn, when the family was without power for 16 days, she worked tirelessly to keep things calm and to support her children through the disruption. Her encouragement has helped them flourish, and this year her daughter Shannika was named the top scoring LCA student in Ireland, a reflection of Noelle’s belief in her children and her determination to give them every opportunity in life. Noelle’s story reflects the strength, love and commitment shown by carers in Roscommon and across Ireland.

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.

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. Noelle 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 its 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. Noelle Hennessy is a wonderful example of the compassion and commitment that exist in homes and communities all over Ireland.”