SETU Secures Increased Funding For Family Carers

The showcase was attended by President of Ireland, Catherine Connolly.

South East Technological University (SETU), in partnership with Family Carers Ireland, has secured additional funding through the Targeted Enhancement Fund (TEF), managed by the Higher Education Authority, to continue its Supporting Family Carers Across Ireland project.

Originally funded in 2022 with €1 million, the initiative provides free, accredited third-level courses (NFQ Levels 6–8) to family caregivers nationwide. So far, 791 support people have enrolled, exceeding initial targets.

The renewed funding follows a successful project showcase attended by Catherine Connolly, who praised the initiative for highlighting the vital contribution of the people in this line of work.

Nicola McEntee, Project Coordinator at SETU said, “The extension of this funding recognises the exceptional achievements of family care providers and the value of learning that respects both lived experience and academic excellence. We look forward to broadening participation and deepening the impact this project has on families and communities across Ireland.”

The additional funding will allow SETU to expand access to flexible educational opportunities, further supporting these vital workers academic achievement, peer connection, and personal development.

In reference to the project, President Connolly stated, “This project shines a welcome spotlight on the vital, yet all-too-often unseen contribution that family carers across our country perform.”

The programme is described as a first-of-its-kind collaboration and a model for inclusive lifelong learning in Ireland.

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