On Wednesday 29th January 2014, the Niamh Louise Foundation, in association with the Department of Culture, Arts and Leisure, held the ‘Tackling Mental Health & Suicide Prevention through Sport’ conference in the Glenavon House Hotel, Cookstown.

Coaches, players and committee members from GAA, soccer, rugby and boxing came together to support the Foundation in their promotion of positive mental health to all sporting organisations. On the night there were talks from Sinead McCartan, Head of Sport in DCAL, Catherine McBennett, Niamh Louise Foundation, Steven McElhatton, Killymoon Rangers FC, Chris Webster, Ulster Rugby, Ciaran Gourley, Tyrone GAA, and Geoff Wilson, Irish FA. Delegates then had the opportunity to take part in an evidence gathering session, the results of which which the Niamh Louise Foundation will use to shape their work within sports clubs across Northern Ireland with the aim of increasing awareness of positive mental health and suicide prevention within our sporting communities.

On the night the Niamh Louise Foundation also launched their ‘First Aid Kit for Mental Health’, a specially designed pack with key information for every home and club to be aware of in regards to spotting signs and symptoms in someone who may be suffering with mental ill health.

More information can be accessed by ringing the Foundation on 028 8775 3327