Players Against Dementia NI

Players Against Dementia NI 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.

Find out more about the campaign and the support available through the Players Against Dementia NI website.

Young, Current and Senior Player support

PFA Northern Ireland is committed to supporting players at every stage of their football journey through education, prevention, and ongoing care. We work with young players in academies to raise awareness of the importance of brain health, helping them understand the risks associated with head injuries, the long-term impact of repeated head trauma, and the steps they can take to protect themselves both on and off the pitch.
We also support clubs, coaches, and current players by promoting best practice around concussion recognition, management, and return-to-play guidelines, ensuring player welfare remains the highest priority.
Through the Brain Eye app which can be downloaded straight to your phone it is now possible for players to ascertain if they are in a red zone after a concussion.
All PFA NI members can access the app for free. To find out more about Brain Eye and how you download and create an account for free contact info@pfani.com or visit our concussion section here

Community Engagement and Support

An event hosted by Players Against Dementia NI was held in Ulster University on 22nd April 2026 where speakers from Ulster University, Players Against Dementia, Meeting Centres, PFA NI and NIFL came together in front of a packed room to deliver research findings and give further information on how they are supporting current and former players.

The PFA fully supports PAD NI in their aim to raise funds that will be distributed to those footballing families that require support.

Pictures from Players Against Dementia Event at Ulster University 22/04/2026

Dementia UK & Admiral Nurses

In Northern Ireland people with require advice and support around dementia can contact an Admiral Nurse who will be able to provide information guidance and comfort.
Many people do not realise there is a dedicated Admiral Nurse in Northern Ireland through Dementia UK that is there to help.
Nationwide have provided funding to ensure Dementia Nurse clinics run in their branches throughout NI. You can find where and when these clinics run here
You can find out more about this the work Admiral Nurses do here

Concussion guidelines

For information on baseline testing and concussion guidelines go to the concussion section of our website.