Press Release
Date: 25th September 2025
Northern Ireland Sports Forum
Female Sports Forum shines a light on Women and Girls Sport in NI
The Female Sports Forum is proud to publish its latest Insight report, in effort to continue to shine a light on the experiences of women and girls in sport and physical activity across Northern Ireland. The report highlights key areas for improvement, including funding, facilities, coaching, participation, visibility, cultural attitudes, and health and safety.
Drawing on survey responses and sector insights, the report provides a comprehensive overview of the barriers women and girls continue to face, while also identifying opportunities for growth and collaboration across the sporting landscape.
“This report gives us a real snap shot of women in the sector, allowing us to better understand where we are now, and how to help address barriers to engagement and progression,” said Angela Platt, Chair, Female Sports Forum.
“It’s clear that women and girls want to be active and involved in sport, however, they need the right structures, support, and recognition to make that possible. Our role is to amplify their voices and promote physical activity and sports at every level”
The findings reinforce the importance of investment, equitable access to facilities, better representation in coaching and leadership, and a cultural shift towards valuing women’s sport at every level — from grassroots participation to elite performance.
By capturing lived experiences and sector-wide feedback, the report serves as a starting place for stakeholders, policymakers, and governing bodies who want to create a more inclusive sporting environment. It also acts as a call to action to work collectively in addressing gaps and celebrating progress.
The Female Sports Forum invites organisations, clubs, and individuals across the sector to read the report, reflect on its findings, and join the ongoing effort to create real, lasting change for women and girls in sport.
The full report is available to download here: Female Sports Forum shines a light on Women and Girls Sport in NI – Female Sports Forum
About the Female Sports Forum
The Female Sports Forum is a collaboration of sports organisations including Ulster Hockey, Ulster Camogie, Ulster Ladies Gaelic, Ulster Rugby, and the Irish Football Association, WISPA and Sported. It continues to champion female participation in sport and physical activity across Northern Ireland. Supported by Sport Northern Ireland, the Northern Ireland Sports Forum, and Ulster University, the Forum is committed to creating inclusive opportunities for women and girls of all ages and abilities. With a vision for every woman and girl to be Active, Fit and Sporty, the Forum is driving cultural change and raising the profile of female sport through leadership, coaching, officiating, and active recreation.
For further details please contact: Richard Honeyford, Richard.honeyford@nisf.net
