Education starts early
We work with academy players to build awareness of brain health, the risks linked to head injuries and the long-term impact of repeated head trauma.
PFA Northern Ireland
Players Against Dementia
Standing with former footballers and their families—raising awareness, advocating for better care and ensuring nobody faces dementia alone.
01 / The campaign
Football remembers its own
Players Against Dementia is dedicated to supporting former footballers and their families affected by dementia and other neurodegenerative conditions.
The initiative raises awareness of the potential long-term effects of head injuries in football, advocates for improved care and support, and helps ensure that former players and their loved ones do not face dementia alone.
Support at every stage
PFA Northern Ireland supports players throughout their football journey through education, prevention and ongoing care.
Recognise. Manage. Recover.
We support clubs, coaches and players by promoting best practice around concussion recognition, management and return-to-play guidance.
Support beyond the pitch
We help connect former players and football families with practical advice, specialist support and people who understand what they are facing.
BrainEye support
Know when something isn’t right
Through the BrainEye app, downloaded directly to a phone, players can check whether they may be in a red zone following a concussion.
All PFA NI members can access the app free of charge.
To learn more about BrainEye and how to download the app and create a free account, contact PFA NI or visit our concussion section.
A community united
On 22 April 2026, Ulster University, Players Against Dementia, Meeting Centres, PFA NI and NIFL came together to share research and explain the support available to current and former players. PFA NI fully supports PAD in its aim to raise funds for football families who require support.
Players Against Dementia event · Ulster University · 22 April 2026
02 / Specialist support
Dementia UK & Admiral Nurses
People in Northern Ireland who require advice and support around dementia can contact an Admiral Nurse for specialist information, guidance and comfort.
Many people do not realise there is a dedicated Admiral Nurse in Northern Ireland through Dementia UK. Nationwide has provided funding for Dementia Nurse clinics to run in branches throughout Northern Ireland.
Protect your brain health
For baseline testing, concussion guidance and practical information for players, visit the dedicated PFA NI concussion section.