Background
We are The Richmond Heavies Foundation – the heart of the Richmond rugby family. The Richmond Heavies is the veteran’s side of Richmond Rugby Club in West London, one of the oldest clubs in the world. It is an amateur club running thriving seniors youth and mini divisions, for both men and women.
2019 saw unexpected bereavements of three young players related to the veterans side of the club. This led to the creation of a charitable foundation to help protect all at the club, as well as being able to help those immediately impacted, by a serious illness or bereavement.
Aims
Our PROTECT mission is to extend lives and prevent avoidable early deaths by facilitating cardiac screening, provide access to confidential mental health services and increase health awareness.
Our SUPPORT mission is to assist families, especially dependents, affected by sudden death or life-changing injury and encourage community rugby participation.
We want everyone in the wider rugby family to get involved so please help and support us.
Use of the Money Raised
- We have established a heart screening programme for all players and coaches at the club over the age of fourteen
- We have created a mental health support programme for all players
- We have established sporting bursaries for kids unable to afford the membership fees
- We have supported the families of those taken unexpectedly
- We aim to roll out learnings and support to other clubs less fortunate than us