‘One of the best’ – Margaret Brabiner named Ulster Caregiver of the Year

How is the Ulster Caregiver of the Year Chosen?

Each Spring, Dovida offices around the country choose a Caregiver of the Year. This person then goes forward to the regional and national competition, which for the past two years has been independently judged by television broadcaster, Mary Kennedy.

Having spent a significant part of her career travelling the length of breadth of the country, interviewing many of those who keep Irish communities thriving, Mary is well-placed to judge the Caregiver of the Year Awards!

Having worked as a Dovida Caregiver for six-and-a-half years,  Margaret Brabiner was first nominated for the Donegal Caregiver of the Year award by her clients and colleagues from Dovida’s Donegal office.

“Margaret has shown extraordinary dedication, professionalism, and compassion to her clients during her time with Dovida” – Mary Kennedy

What did Mary Kennedy say?

Mary was impressed with a number of Margaret’s traits, all of which make her a fantastic Caregiver.

“Margaret has shown extraordinary dedication, professionalism, and compassion to her clients during her time with Dovida. Her calm and reassuring presence has brought comfort and dignity to people during some of their most vulnerable moments. 

“Margaret quietly lifts morale, supports teammates, and consistently leads by example. She is a natural leader and someone who truly deserves this recognition,” said Mary at the awards.  

What have other people said about Margaret?

“She is a breath of fresh air, and I know if I’m feeling low, she will breeze in and put a smile on my face. If anyone deserves this recognition, it is Margaret,” Liz Magnier – Dovida Client.

“Margaret consistently shows professionalism, dedication, kindness, and commitment to both her clients and colleagues. She exemplifies the very best of caregiving and is a truly worthy winner,” Shane Jennings, CEO Dovida Ireland.

“Mags makes people feel seen, respected and truly valued. Her commitment to the people of Donegal is humbling, and her compassion inspires all of us here in Dovida Donegal”, Roberta Cuddy, General Manager at Dovida Donegal.

Dovida’s Caregiver of the Year Awards

The Caregiver of the Year awards honour extraordinary Caregivers from throughout Dovida’s nationwide office network.

The awards seek to celebrate those extraordinary individuals who by their very nature, are people who bring dignity, kindness, and reassurance into the lives of those they support.

Working as a Caregiver in Donegal

Margaret and her colleagues provide a range of non-medical supports in urban and rural areas across Donegal. Non-medical supports encompass services from companionship and help with household tasks to specialist dementia or disability care services.

Strong communities are at the heart of Irish life, particularly in rural areas, and Caregivers play an integral role in helping people to remain present, connected and active in these communities for as long as possible.