Kilkenny woman wins prestigious Red Cross Humanitarian of the Year award

Kilkenny woman Angela Hayes has been named the Humanitarian of the Year award at the seventh annual Irish Red Cross Humanitarian Awards.

The event, attended by Tánaiste Simon Harris, took place at the Royal College of Physicians, aiming to shine a light on the positive impact of individuals, community groups and businesses, who use their passion, skills and volunteering to improve lives, reduce suffering and give a voice to humanitarian issues in Ireland and abroad.

Angela Hayes, Thomas Hayes Trust, received the Humanitarian of the Year award, supported by Bewleys. Angela founded The Thomas Hayes Trust in 2014 to address the lack of suicide prevention and bereavement support services.

Through Teac Tom, she provides immediate walk-in crisis intervention, professional counselling, and family support without waiting lists. In 2024, Teac Tom delivered nearly 5,000 one-to-one support and therapy sessions for adolescents, adults, and children, accessible without doctor referrals and at minimal cost. Angela fundraises €300,000 annually to maintain these critical services and ensure cost is never a barrier for those in need.

HUMBLING
“Winning the Irish Red Cross Humanitarian Awards is a deeply humbling and proud moment for me,” Angela said. “It represents a recognition not just of my work, but of the resilience, compassion, and commitment that drive everything I do to support those affected by suicide and mental health challenges. To be acknowledged by an organisation rooted in humanity and hope affirms that even the smallest acts of care can create ripples of change—and I’m honoured to stand among others who are striving to make a difference.”
Also speaking at the awards, Tánaiste Simon Harris said: “The nominees for the Irish Red Cross Humanitarian Awards represent the very best of us. They live the values of decency and compassion that are at the heart of what it means to be Irish. In a world where humanitarianism is so desperately needed, their efforts should inspire us all. I congratulate the nominees and thank the Irish Red Cross movement for their humanitarian work in Ireland, Gaza, Ukraine and around the world.”