On Tuesday 20th August for our latest session at St Albans RFC, we were joined by WRU CEO Abi Tierney who met with members of the Welsh Refugee Council, children, and their families. She also joined in the activity sessions with the children.
Talking about the partnership and the importance of these sessions Athina Summerbell, Head of Communications, Engagement & Policy for the Welsh Refugee Council said:
“It’s really important for us to partner with people like the WRU, we’re really grateful for this because for a lot of these children, this is the first opportunity that they’ve had to play outside in a safe and welcoming environment. Discovering the fun of Welsh Rugby supports the integration process allowing the children to learn a lot about Welsh culture.”
“Many of these children have gone through significant trauma, they’ve left their own lives behind and come to a new country. They’ve been welcomed by the Welsh people and our Play project supports them to have a safe and warm environment where they can heal through play and have a place just to be children, to have somewhere inclusive where they can have fun, meet new children, build friendships and build their confidence as well”.
Athina’s sentiments were echoed by our Community Director at the Welsh Rugby Union, Geraint John who added:
“Our rugby clubs are safe environments and the Play project is about our staff, our community team and rugby officers working together with the Welsh Refugee Council and Community Regional Foundations to offer a fun activity and safe space for these young people”.
Head of EDI at WRU Liam Scott was in attendance and also described the importance of the partnership:
“We’ve been working with the Welsh Refugee Council over the last 12 to 18 months, looking at how we can support these families. We’re conscious that rugby has the ability to connect with people. There’s also a rich history of important contribution to Welsh rugby by refugees who have migrated over the years to Wales.
“Through the work that we have been doing, we’ve found a great opportunity for the families and the children trying to connect them to Welsh communities through Welsh sport. This is some of these children’s first engagement with rugby ever. It’s not about being the best rugby player, it’s just about bringing everyone together and introducing them to the sport safely.”.
