A Galway-based carer has been announced as a regional winner of the Comfort Keepers Carer of the Year Awards 2026.
Lauren Keighran received the award for her dedication and consistent high standards in caring. She was honoured at a special event in Croke Park to celebrate the 2026 Regional Carer of the Year Winners, where she was chosen as one of 18 finalists from around the country.
“To be named Regional Carer of the Year for Galway tells me that the care and commitment I bring every single day has been noticed and that means a lot,” Lauren said.
“This award isn’t just recognition for me personally, it feels like recognition for all the work that so many carers do quietly, consistently, and with so much heart, often without being seen.”
“Home support work can be challenging, and there are days that test you. But there are also moments that remind you exactly why you chose this path, be it a smile, a thank you, or just knowing someone felt safe and dignified in their own home because you were there.”
Comfort Keepers Ireland is an award-winning homecare and support service that helps people stay living independently in their own homes and communities as safely as possible while maintaining connection, dignity, confidence, and joy.
The company has been operating for over 20 years and has a hub in Galway. Comfort Keepers employs over 150 people across the west, serving Galway, Mayo, Sligo and Leitrim.
Comfort Keepers has also been named the Business All-Star, All-Ireland Champion Home Care Company 2026, receiving this accreditation for the third year in a row.
Collette Gleeson, CEO of Comfort Keepers, said, “At the heart of Comfort Keepers is a commitment to care that goes beyond daily tasks. It is about helping people to feel dignity, respect and independence while staying connected to the community around them.”
“Lauren’s dedication and genuine passion for her work reflect the difference that compassionate, high-quality care can make when it is tailored specifically to each person.”
“Through this kindness, connection and commitment, we help clients continue to live with confidence and remain part of the very communities they have helped shape. Lauren is an excellent ambassador for Comfort Keepers.”
This year, Comfort Keepers became the Official Community Impact Partner of the GAA and the Gaelic Players Association. This partnership brings together three organisations that care deeply about enhancing and protecting social connections across Ireland.
Pat Spillane, former Kerry footballer and Comfort Keepers Ambassador, said, “In my time on the pitch, I’ve seen what real heart and dedication look like, and I see those same qualities in every one of these Comfort Keepers finalists.”
“I’ve had the privilege of meeting many of the people who rely on these vital services to chat about life, community and Gaelic games. I see the same thing everywhere: carers are the backbone of our communities, providing a lifeline and a sense of connection to our GAA supporters and their families.”
“These finalists are the all-stars of care in homes all across Ireland, and it’s only right that we shine a spotlight on the amazing work they do every single day.”
In addition, Comfort Keepers is supportinging FTD Brothers in their courageous Irish Challenge of completing 32 marathons in 32 days across every county in Ireland, raising vital funds for The FTD Foundation and the Alzheimer’s Society of Ireland.
This effort creates crucial visibility for people and their families living with dementia, helping to open conversations and reduce stigma.
Established in 2005, Comfort Keepers Ireland is an award-winning national homecare company. It works closely with the HSE, their clients, and their families to offer a full range of nurse-led, tailored homecare and support services for any individual, including older adults, who wants to stay in their own homes for as long as possible.
