Sport Northern Ireland Performance Pathway Survey

Overview

Sport Northern Ireland (SNI) is undertaking a review of investment across performance sport to inform funding decisions for the second half of the 2026–27 investment cycle and to support planning towards future multi-year investment. This survey forms a key part of that review and is designed to build a clear, system-wide picture of how performance pathways are currently structured, resourced, and delivered across sports.

The information gathered will support SNI in:

• Understanding how funding is currently utilised across different stages of the athlete pathway
• Assessing whether investment is aligned to intended performance outcomes
• Evaluating the effectiveness and value for money of existing programmes
• Identifying strengths, gaps, and risks within the performance system
• Understanding how core investment is complemented by wider support, including Athlete Awards and Sport NI Sports Institute services

This survey also aims to support a clearer understanding of pathway positioning across the sector, particularly in relation to Developmental and High-Performance stages. We recognise that sports operate in different contexts and disciplines, so we encourage you to provide honest, evidence-informed responses that reflect your specific environment.

All information provided will be used to support system-level analysis and inform funding decisions. Where appropriate, responses may be aggregated to guide broader strategic planning for System Partners Investment – National Governing Bodies and other investment programmes.

This survey is structured in two sections:

Part 1: Performance Pathway Survey (Online survey completion)

Part 2: Performance Pathway Data Workbook (Separate Workbook submission)

The survey should take approximately 20–40 minutes to complete. We recommend that it is completed in consultation with relevant performance and development pathway staff within your Governing Body to ensure accuracy and completeness of responses.

Please ensure that you also complete the Performance Pathway Data Workbook

Submissions should be sent to Stephanie Henderson: performancesport@sportni.net

If you have any queries, please contact Stephanie Henderson on performancesportsportni.net

Submission Deadline: 12 noon 30^th June 2025

Please note that submissions will be reviewed upon receipt. Early submission is therefore encouraged and appreciated.