GameChanger

Game Changer is a new programme that seeks to challenge the social and cultural norms and behaviours that contribute to Domestic, Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (DSGBV). These norms and behaviours can range from catcalling, harassment and victim-blaming, to sharing of pornography, intimate image abuse (often referred to as 'revenge porn'), coercive control and sexual exploitation and violence. Our aim is to use the positive influence of Gaelic Games to offer alternative behaviours, attitudes and role models. We want to provide everyone with the tools and knowledge they need to become Game Changers. 

The GAA, supported by the LGFA and Camogie Associations, has teamed up with two Irish NGOs to deliver the Game Changer programme:

Ruhama provides support to women impacted by prostitution and human trafficking for the purpose of sexual exploitation and actively works on both national and international levels to influence policy to protect and support women impacted by gender-based violence in Ireland. 

White Ribbon Ireland is managed by the Men's Development Network and encourages and mobilises men and boys to take action to end violence against women and girls and gender-based violence. 

Funding for the programme has been made available by Cuan under the aegis of the Department of Justice

We are currently developing a number of awareness raising initiatives that will be rolled out over a period of three years (2025-2027). We believe that by working together to implement these initiatives we can work towards a society free from DSGBV. 

We are also developing a suite of e-learning content that will target different age groups (14-15, 16-17, 18+ players, and 18+ officers and volunteers). The modules will address topics such as healthy relationships, consent, bystander intervention, intimate image abuse and the harmful impacts of pornography. The age-appropriate content will be available on the GAA's e-learning platform by summer 2025. 

We also aim to begin delivering in-person trainings and workshops that will help us build a network of individuals and clubs that champion the values that Game Changer promotes.