Glow NI: Empowering Women and Girls
In a world where mental health support can often feel out of reach, Glow NI has become a beacon of hope for women and girls across Northern Ireland. Founded in 2011, the charity emerged in response to a growing mental health crisis among young females and the lack of tailored services available to support them.
Since then, Glow NI has grown into a vital part of the community. With a focus on improving wellbeing, building confidence, and nurturing self-worth, the organisation delivers specialist programmes to women and girls from the age of 10. Whether it’s anxiety, depression, PTSD, or the aftershocks of domestic abuse and childhood trauma, Glow NI provides a safe and empowering space where healing can begin.
Measurable Impact, Life-Changing Results
Over the past year, Glow NI delivered 30 separate eight-week programmes, reaching 330 women and girls. These aren’t just numbers on a spreadsheet — they represent real people experiencing real transformation.
To evaluate their impact, Glow NI uses the Warwick-Edinburgh Mental Wellbeing Scale (WEMWBS), a widely recognised tool in the field of mental health. Before beginning the programme, many participants scored worryingly low — an indicator of high risk for depression and anxiety. By the end, 100% of participants in the LILY and Fearless programmes had moved into the ‘average’ range for wellbeing. That’s an incredible turnaround.
And it’s not just about the stats. The emotional feedback from participants speaks volumes:
“Stronger – not usually one to share, keeping myself to myself, but now feel able and valued to share.”
“I feel more confident in sharing my load because I felt in a safe space.”
Stories like these highlight the true power of what Glow NI offers — not just programmes, but pathways to a better life.
Fundraising with Payaz: Small Device, Big Difference
As a charity, Glow NI relies on a combination of grant funding and public donations to keep their vital services running. Around 80% of their income comes from grants, with the remaining 20% raised through events and public support. That’s where Payaz comes in.
Introduced to Payaz through peer networks, Glow NI started using the TapBox less than three months ago. Despite the short time frame, the impact has been immediate and encouraging. In fact, the first two uses alone brought in £310, meaning the device has already paid for itself — and then some.
At recent community events, they reported a 10% increase in donations — a clear sign that the ability to accept card payments has removed barriers to giving. Not only has it boosted their fundraising, it’s also made event logistics much smoother. Raffle ticket sales, for instance, are now quick and hassle-free.
The team and attendees alike have found the TapBox simple and user-friendly. One team member summed it up perfectly:
“Very easy to use.”
And when asked what they’d say to another charity considering Payaz?
“Definitely do it – it’s made selling raffle tickets at events so easy, as well as donations on the night.”
Looking Ahead
Glow NI continues to transform lives with every programme they run. With the help of innovative tools like the TapBox, they’re not only reaching more people but making it easier for communities to support their work.
At Payaz, we’re proud to play a small part in their big mission — helping people give generously, easily, and on the spot.
