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New Forum Launched to Champion Rights and Services for People Living with Acquired Brain Injury in Northern Ireland

A new forum to advocate for individuals and families affected by Acquired Brain Injury (ABI) has been officially launched at Parliament Buildings, Stormont, during Action for Brain Injury Week (ABI Week). The Northern Ireland Acquired Brain Injury Forum was established in 2024 to replace the former Acquired Brain Injury Working Group, marking a significant step in shaping policy, raising awareness, and improving services for the ABI community.

Originally formed by the Health and Social Care Board, Public Health Agency, and voluntary organisations under the Regional Acquired Brain Injury Implementation Group, the working group was created following a 2010 review of ABI services. Over the years, the group played a key role in raising awareness of ABI, engaging with the public, policymakers, and service providers, while promoting professional training.

Following on from this work, the Northern Ireland Acquired Brain Injury Forum will provide a coordinated platform to improve the lives of those affected by acquired brain injury. Its mission is to influence policy, advocate for individuals and families, and ensure services in health, social care, education, and employment meet their needs.

The Forum reflects the ongoing collaboration of key organisations in the sector, including Brain Injury Matters, Cedar Foundation, Child Brain Injury Trust and Headway, ensuring the continuity of experience and commitment to those affected by ABI. By embedding strengthened collaboration among statutory bodies, voluntary organisations, clinicians, and people with lived experience, the Forum aims to raise awareness, share best practices, and reduce service inconsistencies.

Through initiatives like Action for Brain Injury Week and continuous advocacy, the Forum strives to improve outcomes, drive innovation, and build a more inclusive society for those living with ABI in Northern Ireland.

The launch event was officiated by Mike Nesbitt MLA, Minister of Health, who said:

“Acquired brain injury can have a profound and lasting impact not just on individuals, but on families and communities. The establishment of the Northern Ireland Acquired Brain Injury Forum is a welcome and necessary development creating a dedicated forum to ensure that the voices of those affected are heard, their needs are addressed, and their rights championed. I commend the collaborative spirit behind this initiative and look forward to seeing its positive impact.”

Gerard Anderson, Chair, Northern Ireland Acquired Brain Injury Forum said:

“The launch of the Northern Ireland Acquired Brain Injury Forum represents a step forward in our collective approach to acquired brain injury in Northern Ireland. By bringing together voices from across sectors, we are creating a stronger, united front to advocate for better services, to raise awareness, and ensure that no one affected by ABI is left behind. This Forum is about meaningful change and shaping the future of everyone living with ABI.”

NIABIF is aligned with the United Kingdom Acquired Brain Injury Forum (UKABIF), ensuring that Northern Ireland has a strong voice in UK-wide efforts to improve outcomes for people living with ABI. This alignment allows NIABIF to contribute to and benefit from national policy developments, shared learning, and coordinated advocacy across all four nations.

By mirroring the strategic aims of UKABIF, the Northern Ireland Acquired Brain Injury Forum strengthens its capacity to influence regional and national policy while addressing the unique needs of the Northern Ireland ABI community.

“We are delighted to see the establishment of the Northern Ireland Acquired Brain Injury Forum. This Forum represents an important step forward in ensuring a consistent and coordinated approach to supporting people with acquired brain injury across the UK. By aligning with UKABIF, the Northern Ireland Acquired Brain Injury Forum strengthens our collective voice and reinforces the shared commitment to improving awareness, services, and outcomes for everyone affected by brain injury.”

- Chloë Hayward, Executive Director, United Kingdom Acquired Brain Injury Forum (UKABIF)

Brain Injury Matters are also hosting Country Hits and Heart Benefit Concert on Wednesday 4th June 2025 at 7pm to celebrate resilience in the brain injury community through live country music, storytelling, and shared experiences.