There are people who are always ready to help. Who head out early in the morning to someone who needs help. Who work night shifts, prepare medicines, listen when things are difficult, and keep going when it gets hard.

On 12 May, it is the Day of Care. A day to pause and reflect on everyone who cares, in every form. They rarely ask for it, but they deserve it: a moment of recognition. To hear that what they do is appreciated, that they are seen.

Who is the Day of Care actually for?

The Day of Care is broader than you might think. Of course, it is first and foremost about the nurse in the ICU or the carer in the nursing home. But think also of the informal caregiver who cares for a loved one alongside a job. In the Netherlands, there are about 5 million of them. Or the home care worker who has been faithfully visiting for years. The volunteer at the hospice. The colleague who is always on standby as a first aider. The neighbour who does the shopping every week for the elderly lady down the street.

All of these people have one thing in common: they give more than they get back. Today is a good moment to change that.

Four ways to thank someone who cares

You do not have to go all out. It is the gesture that counts. Here are five ideas that always go down well, and that you can even arrange at the last minute. Even on the day itself.

1. A moment of rest in a box

People in care spend the whole day giving energy to others. Give them something that gives energy back. The Calming Box from Hazel & Berry with handmade, natural care products. Or a heating pad from Kersepitje: two minutes in the microwave and you have a wonderfully warm cushion after a long shift. The sets from Shampoobars are also great: natural shampoo bars, conditioner and body bars, without plastic packaging. Gifts for lovely relaxation.

2. Something tasty to pause over

Sometimes the simplest gift is the best. Two jars of artisanal honey from Bijenbaas for the morning tea. A tea set from Soolong with special flavours from around the world. The best caramel sauce from Suboro. Or simply the most delicious chocolate. Small, but thoughtful.

3. An experience to get away from it all for a while

The most beautiful gifts are moments and memories. A yoga workshop to truly unwind. Or an alpaca walk via Nature's Gift: a few hours outside, among the animals, something completely different and delightfully original. Exactly what someone needs who is always busy doing things for others.

4. A personal message

But often the most important gift is not a product, but a word. A card, a message, a phone call: simply saying what you appreciate so much. Costs nothing, means everything. Combine it with a small gift and you have something that will not be forgotten quickly.

Last minute? You can find all the gifts above at Cadeo

All products in this article are available via Cadeo. And the nice thing is: you do not even have to choose. Send a personal link so the recipient can choose a gift for themselves from more than 1,200 products, including all the tips above. Sent within 24 hours, fully customisable with your own message and the gift is delivered straight to their home. Choice gifts are available from as little as €15.

Whether you want to thank one informal caregiver or put an entire care team in the spotlight: it works for both. No minimum order, no long-term contract.