Emma O’Neill is a dynamic health and social care leader with over 20 years of experience championing mental health, family support, and social inclusion across Northern Ireland. As CEO of CAUSE, she passionately advocates for unpaid mental health carers, ensuring their voices influence policy and service development.

Emma combines strategic vision with operational expertise, supported by a BA Hons in Sociology and Social Policy, an ILM Level 5 in Leadership and Management, and ongoing study toward a Postgraduate Certificate in Leadership at Ulster University.

Previously, as Head of Operations at TinyLife, she led early intervention services for families with premature babies and championed equality, diversity, and inclusion. Her broader career includes supporting and advocacy for young carers, managing mental health programmes in schools, and embedding the Think Family model within children's and mental health services.

An alumni of the Boardroom Apprentice Programme (2022) and active CO3 member, Emma leads with compassion, innovation, and integrity, creating more equitable services and amplifying underrepresented voices.