Laois mother is named Netwatch Family Carer of the Year 2024 

A Laois mother has been named Netwatch Family Carer of the Year 2024. Sarah Dooley from Debbycot, Mountmellick is a mother of four boys - John and Patrick (5), Cathal (7), and Eoin (9). Sarah has shown extraordinary strength and dedication in caring for her children, overcoming immense challenges to ensure they receive the love and support they need.

Sarah’s youngest boys, twins John and Patrick, are autistic and non-verbal, while her son Cathal has been undergoing treatment for leukaemia for the past three years, requiring constant hospital visits. Despite these significant demands, Sarah has fought tirelessly to secure school placements for John and Patrick and has put her career on hold to care for her children full-time. Her commitment and resilience embody the spirit of family carers across Ireland.

This year’s awards also celebrated the outstanding contributions of five young carers from across Ireland. These remarkable young people have stepped up to support their families in extraordinary ways, balancing their own lives while caring for siblings and parents with additional needs. Their stories highlight the dedication, compassion, and maturity they bring to their roles, often providing vital support and comfort to their loved ones.

Catherine Cox, Head of Communications and Policy with Family Carers Ireland, praised Sarah’s exceptional dedication: “Sarah exemplifies the incredible work of family carers across the country. Every day, family carers provide critical support, often with limited recognition or resources. They deserve more than acknowledgment—they need meaningful support, including appropriate financial compensation, respite, and access to vital therapies.

“With tomorrow’s election, it is crucial that all parties prioritise family carers and commit to tangible, meaningful support. The next government must take decisive action to address their urgent needs and fully recognise their vital role in society. Throughout this campaign, family carers have voiced their frustration with empty promises and inaction—this election must be the moment for real, lasting change.” Charity Ambassador and awards host Miriam O’Callaghan also commended Sarah’s efforts: “Sarah’s story is one of incredible determination and love. Family carers like her play a vital role in our communities, ensuring the most vulnerable among us receive the care they need. It’s an honour to help shine a spotlight on her incredible work and the contributions of family carers across the country.” Netwatch Brand Ambassador and Irish rugby legend Mick Galwey added: “Sarah’s dedication is truly remarkable. She represents the strength, compassion, and perseverance shown by family carers every day. It’s a privilege to celebrate her and highlight the importance of the work family carers do in shaping a more caring society.” The Netwatch Family Carer of the Year Awards, now in their 17th year, celebrate the extraordinary efforts of Ireland’s 500,000 family carers, who provide 19 million hours of unpaid care every week. Their contribution is invaluable, supporting loved ones with additional needs, chronic illnesses, disabilities, or mental health challenges, and saving the State an estimated €20 billion annually.

Sarah Dooley’s story, alongside those of the young carer recipients, underscores the critical role family carers play in society and the pressing need for the State to provide adequate financial support, access to therapies, and much-needed respite services.