NIFL Mental Health Support

The NI Football League are pleased to provide an update on the partnership programmes that support the mental well-being of their clubs and their personnel…

We are aware of the importance of mental health at this time and the NI Football League is committed to providing continued practical support and guidance during these difficult times.

Clubs, coaches and players now have five bespoke options from respected partners to assist with mental health and wellbeing support that are immediately available to access.

Sport NI supporting Management Teams (NEW)

As part of Sport NI’s ongoing commitment to mental health and wellbeing the sports psychology team at Sport NI has recently developed a support system for our senior managers and head coaches. This provides one to one contact support which considers both the mental and lifestyle perspectives of sports team management.

Inspire Support Hub (NEW)

Sport NI has recently launched the Inspire Sports Hub to widen access to wellbeing support for sports clubs and associations across Northern Ireland. It helps provide the right help, right now, with instant online access to a range of resources that are tailored to you, as well as information and advice relating specifically to wellbeing and sport. Available from www.inspiresupporthub.org

Top Form Players App (NEW)

During the Covid-19 pandemic players from the NI Football League have been offered free access to this football psychology App. The App supports the development of positive mental health for successful sporting performance and personal wellbeing. Available HERE

Sporting Chance

Through the continued support of Sport NI, the player welfare programme with mental health and addiction charity Sporting Chance continues to be in place for NIFL clubs. The partnership aims to support the well-being of our clubs, players and personnel and includes counselling and a referral system with team workshops soon to be available online. Available HERE

Sports Chaplaincy

The Sports Chaplain is increasingly becoming part and parcel of club life across the NI Football League, and sport as a whole. The Chaplain’s work is primarily aimed at the care and welfare of players and staff but also at the wider community of people within the club including supporters and families of players and staff. Available HERE

 Please note the above programmes are all currently available to club personnel but clubs availing of the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme should be mindful of guidelines relating to any activity prescribed by an employer.

If a NI Football League club, manager or player requires further information, please contact Steven Mills (smills@nifootballleague.com / 07472750799)