A new forum to advocate for individuals and families affected by Acquired Brain Injury (ABI) will be officially launched on Monday, 19th May 2025, 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 the work of the Acquired Brain Injury Working Group, 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.
“This Forum is a testament to what can be achieved through united purpose. At the Child Brain Injury Trust, we know the life-changing impact of childhood-acquired brain injury, and we’re proud to help give Northern Ireland’s ABI community a louder voice.”
says Dr. Sharon Buckland, Head of Brain Injury Service at Child Brain Injury Trust.