PREM Rugby has taken a pioneering step in community engagement and wellbeing by announcing its first-ever official charity partnership, teaming up with Mental Health UK for a two-year nationwide initiative.
The partnership brings together one of the world’s most competitive rugby leagues and a leading mental health organisation, with the goal of addressing the root causes of poor mental health, raising critical funds, and using rugby’s cultural reach to build stronger social connections.
Tackling a Growing Challenge
The launch comes against a backdrop of rising mental health concerns across the UK. According to recent YouGov polling commissioned by PREM Rugby and Mental Health UK, 45% of UK adults have experienced mental health struggles in the past five years. Even more concerning, only one in four respondents felt equipped to deal with life’s challenges effectively.
Among younger adults, the findings are particularly stark. Half of 18–24-year-olds reported experiencing mental health difficulties in recent years, while just 16% said they felt prepared to cope with everyday pressures. A significant proportion admitted they often suffer in silence, unsure where to seek help.
Yet, this same group sees sport as part of the solution. Nearly 40% said they would like to be more active to support their wellbeing, and 23% noted that sport helps them feel more connected to others.
Rugby as a Platform for Change
The polling also highlighted the unique role rugby already plays in building community. Rugby supporters are nearly twice as likely as the general public to say that watching sport helps them feel connected to others, while they also show greater confidence in supporting others with mental health challenges.
Simon Massie-Taylor, Chief Executive of PREM Rugby, emphasised the importance of redefining bravery in this new partnership:
“Rugby players are often viewed as brave on the pitch, but through this collaboration, we want to encourage individuals everywhere to be brave in life—whether that’s sharing their struggles, asking for support, or stepping out of their comfort zones. With young people at the heart of our growth strategy, this partnership provides a powerful opportunity to create lasting change.”
Expanding Mental Health Support
Through this collaboration, PREM Rugby and Mental Health UK will work together to provide practical tools, raise awareness, and expand access to programmes that support young people across rugby communities. A major fundraising drive will also run alongside the campaign, ensuring that services reach those who need them most.
Brian Dow, Chief Executive of Mental Health UK, underlined the shared vision:
“In PREM Rugby we’ve found a partner who shares our ambition to give people the tools to live well. Rugby is more than a game—it’s a powerful symbol of resilience, teamwork, and connection, values that are essential when it comes to tackling mental health challenges.”
Looking Ahead
The partnership officially activates in October 2025, aligning its first campaign weekend with World Mental Health Day (October 10). Over the course of the 2025/26 and 2026/27 Gallagher PREM seasons, initiatives will spotlight education, connection, and fundraising, culminating at the Gallagher PREM Final in 2027.
By joining forces, PREM Rugby and Mental Health UK are not only amplifying the conversation around mental health but also demonstrating how sport can be a driver of cultural change—bringing courage, connection, and community into focus both on and off the field.
Source: 365247 Media analysis of PREM Rugby’s official partnership announcement
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