A group of housing associations will join forces with the Irish Football Association (IFA) to kick off a new partnership promoting inclusion, equality, and community cohesion through the power of football.
Through the Housing for All Programme, the associations are lending their support to the IFA’s Inclusion and Disability Football Programme – proving that when it comes to inclusion, we’re all on the same team. The partnership will be officially launched at Avoneil Leisure Centre during Good Relations Week, with backing from the Community Relations Council.
The collaboration – involving APEX, Arbour, ARK, Choice, Radius, Rural, Triangle, Woven, and North Belfast Housing – will provide new football opportunities for people of all abilities and backgrounds.
The Inclusion & Disability Football programme is supported by the Department for Communities and the Housing Executive’s ‘Housing for All’ Shared Housing Programme. The Programme has its origins in the NI Executive Together: Building a United Community Strategy which reflects the Executive’s commitment to improving community relations and continuing the journey towards a more united and shared society.
Each of the nine Housing Associations involved managed shared housing developments across northern Ireland, with associated five-year Good Relations Plan
Delivered through the Irish FA Foundation, the Inclusion and Disability Football Programme ensures that people with disabilities – including those with learning disabilities, cerebral palsy, visual impairment, and powerchair users – can get involved in the game and shine.
The programme features weekly training sessions, regional leagues, national competitions, and elite pathways, with more than 80 disability football teams currently taking part across Northern Ireland. Players compete across three age groups: 7–11, 12–16, and 16+.
There’s also a great assist for young people studying Sports Management at Belfast Met, who can gain valuable experience as match referees.