Belfast events venues announce Dementia NI as charity partner
We were absolutely delighted to be selected as the official charity partner for the ICC (International Conference Centre) Belfast, Waterfront Hall and Ulster Hall, and there are already so many exciting things being planned to help raise awareness and vital funds with their staff teams and audiences.
The charity partnership will see the teams at all three Belfast venues organising fundraising events and activities in aid of Dementia NI, along with staff volunteering to support the charity’s work.
Rob McConnell, Chief Executive of ICC Belfast, Waterfront Hall and Ulster Hall explained the importance of the annual charity partnership. He said,
“We know our charity partnership is a valuable opportunity at a time when fundraising is tougher than ever for the voluntary and community sector.
“Dementia NI was selected following a call-out to all our employees to nominate a chosen charity. From this, shortlisted charities were given the opportunity to pitch to our Engagement team. Dementia has touched the family circles of many of our staff, so it’s a cause we’re very proud to be supporting into 2026.
“Our venues deliver a significant impact for the local economy and they bring thousands of people together from near and far, whether that’s for a music or comedy gig, a pantomime, a corporate dinner or an international conference. We hope we’ll be able to use our audience reach to bring new awareness of Dementia NI and the incredible work they do. By bringing this disease into everyday conversations – in places of entertainment or at business events - we hope to play a part in breaking down the stigma, so that we can collectively do more as a community to support people affected by dementia.”
Karen, our Head of Engagement, said:
“We are delighted to be selected as the official charity partner of ICC Belfast, Waterfront Hall, and Ulster Hall and we look forward to working together to deliver a partnership that starts meaningful conversations about dementia.
“We value the impact this partnership will have in raising vital funds and helping to reframe the public’s understanding of dementia.
“As a local charity, every pound raised here stays here, helping us grow our support network and allowing us to continue our work raising awareness, challenging the stigma, and providing essential peer support & empowerment for people living with dementia.”
The selection of an annual charity partner by the board of these three iconic Belfast venues is integral to its community strategy, recognising and consolidating their place within the city and the local community. It is a privilege to know that we (Dementia NI) reflect the venues’ commitment to always provide a safe and welcoming environment which supports the needs of a diverse range of patrons and partners. This is part of a wide range of charitable and community initiatives throughout the year.