Thirty family carers supported in Inishowen last year, with new programme coming in 2026

A programme which supports family carers in Inishowen has concluded for 2025, however, there are currently ambitious plans in place to support more families in 2026.

The ‘Care4Carers’ initiative, delivered by Inishowen Development Partnership (IDP), wrapped up last week with a Health and Wellbeing Day at the Inishowen Gateway Hotel in Buncrana.

Thirty carers from Buncrana and Carndonagh took part in eight weekly sessions designed to build confidence, improve wellbeing, and explore pathways to employment and lifelong learning.

Sinead McDaid, Team Lead with IDP, said the programme provided a vital space for family carers to step back from their demanding roles and focus on themselves.

She said the programme, which is funded by the Department of Social Protection through the Dormant Accounts Action Plan, reflects IDP’s commitment to empowering those who provide unpaid care in our communities.

Workshops covered in the programme included personal development, health and nutrition, self-care strategies, and future planning, alongside practical supports for training and employment.

“Care4Carers is about connecting and creating opportunities for carers to gather and develop as well as feel supported and valued,” added Sinead.

Feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, with participants highlighting the sense of community and the opportunity to learn new skills.

“I thought this programme was very valuable because a lot of carers can feel isolated, and chatting to like-minded people can be a great way to feel less alone,” one lady said.

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Others pinpointed activities such as signposting and referral opportunities, the healthy eating and wellness aspects, being taken out of their comfort zone and having the opportunity to speak with other carers in the same situation, as being course highlights.

“All in all, I really loved the course and feel it has definitely opened my mind to new ideas and prospects going forward,” added another participant.

Looking ahead, IDP plans to run two more eight-week Care4Carers programmes in the Inishowen area in 2026, with the chosen locations being subject to demand.

The new programme, entitled ‘Exploring Me – The Next Chapter is for You’, will continue to prioritise health and wellbeing, while offering enhanced supports for personal growth and employment pathways.

For details or to register interest in the 2026 programme, email: employmentsupport@inishowen.ie or call 074 93 62218.