Lidl Ireland calling on customers to supprt Family Carers Ireland
Lidl Ireland is calling on their customers to support Family Carers Ireland this month.
Lidl are launching its Heart of Gold campaign for this year, to promote awareness for people who are providing care.
This campaign began following a survey from Lidl Plus, identifying people who were family carers and the pressures that they face.
The survey was conducted throughout the country and found that 63% of respondents felt overwhelmed and at ‘breaking point’.
It also found that 24% of respondents provided care 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
From the findings, it shows that 65% of respondents said caring had caused them to miss out on holidays, hobbies and activities.
Lidl’s campaign is aiming to recignise the everyday reality for people who provide care and the pressures they face.
Across June, customers will be able to support their campaign by buying pins for €2, with all proceeds going to Family Carers Ireland.
As well as this, Lidl staff will take part in a charity spinathon across all 191 stores. Last year they raised more than €170,000 for Family Carers Ireland.
Customers can also donate their Deposit Return Scheme deposits in stores nationwide.
Holly Carpenter, TV personality, said: “With my father going through treatment, I’ve had my eyes opened to the quiet heroism that happens behind closed doors every single day.
“I’ve learned first-hand just how much strength it takes to rally around a loved one when they need it most, the physical exhaustion, the emotional weight, and the relentless dedication required to keep going.
“It is a level of hard work that often goes unseen, which is why I am truly delighted to be supporting Lidl Ireland and their charity partner Family Carers Ireland.
“We need to draw attention to the incredible carers across this country who give so much of themselves. Donating isn't just about financial support; it’s about telling every carer out there: 'We see you, we value you, and you are not alone.”
Maeve McCleane, Chief People Officer at Lidl Ireland & Northern Ireland, added:
"Our research reveals a concerning crisis for carers across the country. The reality is that the majority of our shoppers who identify as carers are feeling completely overwhelmed and at breaking point. It is heartbreaking to see that nearly a quarter of them are providing care 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
We want carers to know we value and support them and the incredible work that they do in our communities every day. This June, for 'Heart of Gold' month, we really want to show our support for Family Carers Ireland. We’re asking our customers to join us by picking up a Heart of Gold pin in-store for just €2, with 100% of the proceeds going directly to the charity, or by buying a bouquet of our charity flowers. Every single purchase will make a meaningful difference to carers right across the country.”
Sharon Foley, CEO of Family Carers Ireland, said: “Family carers are the backbone of care in communities across Ireland, yet many continue to feel invisible and unsupported. Lidl’s continued partnership and commitment to raising awareness and funds are making a real and meaningful difference to carers and their families nationwide.
Funds raised through the Heart of Gold campaign this June will help us provide essential services, including respite support, counselling, advocacy and emergency assistance for carers who are under enormous pressure. We are incredibly grateful to Lidl, its colleagues and customers for standing with carers once again this year.”