Project Rugby

Project Rugby is a joint initiative between Premiership Rugby and Gallagher designed to increase participation in the game by people from traditionally underrepresented groups. These include:

• Black Asian and Minority Ethnic People
• People from Lower Socio-Economic backgrounds (top 30% IMD)
• Disabled groups

The programme currently engages participants aged 14+ (and 16+ for disabled groups) and is delivered by London Irish Foundation staff across Surrey, Hampshire, Berkshire and Middlesex. The Foundation provides accessible opportunities for people to participate in the game at a time and place that is easily accessible for the participants. The Foundation works hard to provide exit routes into grassroot clubs by ensuring infrastructures are in place. 

Key Outcomes include:

• Transition participants from Project Rugby activity into regular rugby participation
• Improving individual physical and mental well-being 
• Reduce social mis conduct and isolation 
• Challenge existing perceptions of the game, positioning rugby as a sport for anyone regardless of background, ability or gender
• Use positive role models to act as mentors

For more information, please visit www.projectrugby.co.uk or contact [email protected].

The London Irish Foundation were delighted to help at the Osborne School Sports Day, as part of Project Rugby, on Thursday 20 June! Osborne School is a maintained special school for pupils with learning disabilities aged 11-19. To see how the Foundation were involved, click here!