A new card to support care workers with priority shopping is to be launched in Northern Ireland.
Similar to ID cards for healthcare workers, carers will be able to show the card in stores to get access to priority shopping hours.
Meanwhile, Asda, Co-op, Iceland, Lidl, Marks & Spencer and Sainsbury’s have all confirmed they will facilitate unpaid/family carers and young carers during their priority shopping hours.
Launching the new ID card the Health Minister said: "I’m pleased that the theme for this week is help make caring visible, so much of what carers do goes on in family homes and is often unseen but it is not unappreciated.
"Carers and young carers are there at all hours of the day and night and for that we are very grateful."
The new initiative comes during the first day of Carers Week on Monday.
Welcoming the news, Clare-Anne Magee from Carers NI said: "Caring for a family member or friend can be stressful at the best of times but during this pandemic carers are finding it increasingly difficult."
The cards, which will be distributed by Health Trusts around the country, are expected to be issued within the next two weeks.
Aodhán Connolly from the Northern Ireland Retail Consortium added: “Our members are delighted to support the Minister and the Department of Health with the Carers ID card initiative. It will make things a little easier for those who are playing a really important role for their families and their communities.
