Coleraine woman Alison O’Hara has been recognised for her outstanding dedication to caring for others after being named the winner of the Caring Spirit Award, sponsored by Power NI, at the Spirit of NI Awards in September 2026.
On Wednesday 7 October, the Mayor of Causeway Coast and Glens welcomed Alison and her family to a special reception to recognise her achievement and celebrate the difference she has made to those around her.
Alison had dedicated a lot of her life to supporting family and friends through some of the most difficult periods of their lives.
When Alison’s niece, Lesley Ann, lost both of her parents, she did not hesitate to open her home and take her niece into her care, providing her with love, stability and someone she could depend on during an incredibly difficult time.
Years later, following the loss of her own best friend, Alison once again put the needs of someone else first. While grieving herself, she supported her friend’s sister, who had suffered a stroke and needed additional care and support.
Alison has also experienced significant personal loss, including the death of her mother from cancer. Just one week after her mother’s diagnosis, Alison’s father was also diagnosed. Alison now continues to care for her father, making time to have dinner with him every evening.
For Alison, it is this gift of time that matters most. She believes that “giving time is the best thing you can give someone.”
Her caring nature has touched many people throughout her life, with Alison continuing to be there for others despite facing her own challenges and losses.
Her daughter described her as “the heart of our family, our caring champion, and we couldn’t be prouder of you.”
Following her meeting with Alison, Mayor of Causeway Coast and Glens, Councillor Dawn Huggins said: “It was a real privilege to meet Alison and hear about the incredible care and compassion she has shown to so many people throughout her life. Her story is a powerful reminder that caring is about so much more than practical support – it is about being there, giving your time and helping others feel that they are not alone.
“Alison has experienced her own heartbreak and loss, yet has continued to put others first and provide a source of strength and comfort to those around her. She is a truly deserving recipient of the Caring Spirit Award, and I was delighted to have the opportunity to recognise her achievement and meet her family.”
The Caring Spirit Award recognises an individual who has dedicated their time to caring for a family member or friend, celebrating the compassion, commitment and difference that unpaid carers make every day.
Alison was joined at the Mayor’s reception by her partner, her niece Lesley Ann and her father.