Speakers
Tim Elliott
Parallel Workshops
This session will explore the transformative role of sport and physical activity within the Northern Ireland Prison Service, demonstrating how participation can support mental wellbeing, self-esteem, rehabilitation, and successful reintegration. Through partnerships with organisations including the Irish Football Association, Ulster GAA, Parkrun, and the Community Sport Network, a wide range of programmes have been developed across the prison estate.
These initiatives provide opportunities for skills development, leadership, physical activity, and accredited learning, while engaging individuals who may otherwise be difficult to reach. The presentation will highlight how sport can act as a catalyst for positive change, resilience, and community reintegration.
Billy Boyd, NIIPS Head of IT Services. Billy has worked in community sports development for over 24 years, bringing extensive experience in fitness, boxing, and sports coaching across a range of disciplines. Throughout his career, he has engaged with hundreds of groups in both community and custodial settings.
Over the past nine years, through CSN, Billy has played a key role in developing impactful programmes within Northern Ireland’s prison system, primarily in HMP Maghaberry, as well as Hydebank Wood and Burren House. Under the “Positive Impact” initiative, he has delivered personal development opportunities for inmates across all categories, using sport and physical activity as tools for engagement, wellbeing, and rehabilitation.
Billy and CSN have also developed additional programmes aimed at supporting prisoners who may otherwise have limited opportunities to participate, including activities for separated prisoners and older inmates such as boccia and seated games.
For the past six years, Billy has been instrumental in expanding CSN’s “Through the Gate” initiatives, helping to establish Support Hubs across Belfast that use physical activity and leadership development to positively engage ex-offenders as they transition back into the community.
Although Positive Impact is primarily an adult programme, Billy credits his Honours Degree in Youth Work as invaluable to his practice. This has also supported the development of outreach work within Centenary Men’s Homeless Hostel, promoting healthier lifestyles and positive engagement through physical activity.