Psychology-powered policy can help deliver positive change in Northern Ireland, says BPS
The British Psychological Society (BPS) is calling for all political parties in Northern Ireland to harness the power of psychology to deliver effective policy that can transform lives for the better.
23 June 2025
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Psychological evidence and expertise should be embedded within policy making, says a new document launched by the society.
Northern Ireland Policy Pillars has been published in response to the policy areas the Northern Ireland Executive will prioritise in the coming years – its Programme for Government (PfG).
The document identifies five areas which demand urgent action from the NI Executive, along with evidence-based recommendations:
- Access to services – Health, social care and education
- The workforce
- Mental health
- Prevention and early intervention
- Equality
Dr Geradine O'Hare, chair of the BPS Northern Ireland Branch, said:
"Psychologists are experts in human behaviour and can help people to deal with the challenges they face and bring about change across society. It's therefore vital that any new interventions or strategies are developed using a psychological approach which considers the whole person.
"The BPS supports the priorities for action set out by the NI Executive. We have been actively engaging with government and key stakeholders on many of these areas and will continue to do so.
"Psychologists and the wider psychological workforce have the skills needed to make a positive difference to people's lives across different sectors, including health, justice and education."
Northern Ireland has the highest prevalence of mental health problems in the UK and research suggests that 98 per cent of women in the province have experienced at least one form of violence or abuse in their lifetime.
"If we are to help tackle these and other issues, then timely access to psychological services, early intervention and a holistic, trauma-informed approach are key. It's essential, therefore, to also address the severe shortage of psychologists in the country," Dr O'Hare added.
"Through developing psychology-powered policy and services, we can help to ensure we have a healthier, more psychologically resilient population in Northern Ireland."
The BPS welcomed publication of the NI Programme for Government 2024-2027 in March. The society's policy pillars document is a detailed response to the PfG.
Northern Ireland Policy Pillars