Supporting brighter futures: The HeadStart initiative supported by Zurich

Since launching, the HeadStart fund has been helping innovative projects and organisations across Ireland to make a real difference to young people’s mental health.

How the HeadStart fund works

The fund supports organisations working with young people aged 15-24 in Ireland and focuses on innovative solutions to help groups such as young people, women, and those experiencing socio-economic disadvantages to improve and maintain their mental health and wellbeing over time. Since its launch in 2023, the HeadStart Fund has empowered awardees to deliver unique and effective solutions across the country.

You can find a full list of awardees here.

Recent highlights from our awardees

Our awardees have been busy making a positive impact. Here are just a few of their inspiring activities:

Pride on the Pitch:
Bohemians and Dublin Devils teamed up for Pride Month, hosting a vibrant tournament at Dalymount Park. With mixed-gender teams and a strong sense of community, the event championed inclusion and provided a safe space for LGBTQI+ young people to enjoy football, access mental health resources, and challenge discrimination.

Way 2 Work:
This wrap-around service helps young people leaving the Tusla care system and DEIS students develop employability skills—a key factor in long-term wellbeing. In partnership with Tusla, DCEDIY, and TESS, the team launched the Young Learners Bursary Grant, offering up to €3,000 to support apprenticeship and education costs.

Liquid Therapy:
Blending beach workshops with time in the ocean, Liquid Therapy is all about building resilience and confidence. Their new Beach School—the first in the northwest—offers primary school children a six-week programme combining surfing, education, and wellbeing, helping kids connect with nature, stay active, and learn life skills.

Hair Together:
Congratulations to Eileen McHugh, CEO of Hair Together, who was named Social Entrepreneur of the Year at the 2025 IMAGE PwC Awards! Hair Together uses hairdressing to help young people build skills, confidence, and wellbeing, working alongside industry volunteers and a psychotherapist.

Together, we’re making a difference

The HeadStart Fund continues to support young people across Ireland—and Zurich employees are getting involved too, through volunteering and learning opportunities with our awardees. We’re excited to keep supporting these innovative projects and seeing their positive impact grow.

Together, we can help create a brighter, healthier future for the next generation.