The Northern Ireland Sports Forum has today launched a new Strategic Plan for 2024-2029.

The Forum is a voluntary association whose membership consists of 70+ Full Members, 25+ Associate Members and 14 Individual Members with an interest in sport and physical recreation across Northern Ireland.

It highlights that in order to demonstrate the long-term impact of sport on society and the economy in Northern Ireland, investment in a robust evidence base is essential.

Without this it contends that the sector would not be in a position to fully maximise opportunities for funding, partnerships and long-term sustainable growth.

The plan, developed in consultation with key stakeholders across the sporting community, reflects the organisations ‘unwavering commitment to empowering member organisations, leading the agenda and fostering a culture of excellence in sport.’

It identifies key priorities to shape the next five years of development, including:

Independence and resilience: Increasing the resilience and independence of the NI Sports Forum
Leadership: Advocating for sports, supporting collaboration across organisations, promoting good governance and developing research and evidence.
Support and Delivery:  Providing guidance, resources,and services to ensure the sustainability and growth of our members; helping to make sport more accessible, providing education and benchmarking for members.

“This strategic plan represents a bold step forward for sport in NI,” said NI Sports Forum Chairperson, Marc Scott.

“It is our roadmap to helping our members have a voice and supporting them in their work to develop a  thriving, inclusive, and successful sporting environment for everyone.”

“We are proud of the collaborative effort that has gone into shaping this vision and look forward to working with all our stakeholders to bring it to life,” added Executive Manager, Richard Honeyford.

Sport and recreation has faced many challenges over recent years. Engagement with our members and wider stakeholders has helped inform us of the overall needs for organisations now and how the Sports Forum can best assist in progressing the agenda, helping to meet the outcomes of the Department for Communities Active Living Strategy.

“It is vitally important that we are able to demonstrate the positive impact sport has on the economy, in our local communities and on individuals’ lives.”

“By achieving this, we are able to maximise opportunities to grow our sports throughout the region.”

“The Strategic Plan 2024-2029 is more than a document – it is a call to action for all those who are passionate about the role of sport in our society. By working together, we can ensure that sport continues to inspire, unite, and transform lives across NI.”

 

SPORT FOR BUSINESS PERSPECTIVE

The Forum is a valuable group enabling sport across Northern Ireland come together and become stronger as a result of shared learning  

WHAT’S UP NEXT?

We look forward to hosting more events in partnership with the Forum in 2025  

MEMBERSHIP AND EVENTS

The NI Sports Forum is one of 300 + members of the Sport for Business Community.

 

 

The Sport for Business Membership comprises nearly 300 organisations, including all the leading sports and sponsors, as well as commercial and state agencies. 

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