PREM Rugby has named Mental Health UK as charity partner.
The national partnership will run across the 2025/26 and 2026/27 seasons, culminating at the Gallagher PREM Final 2027.
The collaboration aims to tackle the root causes of poor mental health, raise vital funds, and use the power of rugby to create meaningful connections and conversations. The partnership launches as new polling revealed only one in four UK adults feel equipped to handle life’s challenges.
The announcement is supported by new polling from YouGov, which shows 45% of UK adults report that they have struggled with their mental health in the last five years. The polling also highlights that rugby fans are more likely to feel connected to others through watching sport (21% vs 12% of UK adults) and are more confident in supporting others with their mental health.
The partnership will focus on empowering young people, after the data showed half of 18–24-year-olds have struggled with their mental health, with 39% of this group viewing sport as part of the solution.
Activity will begin in October with a dedicated charity weekend aligned with World Mental Health Day on 10th October.
Simon Massie-Taylor, Chief Executive of PREM Rugby, said, “We are proud to welcome Mental Health UK as the league’s first official charity partner. Rugby players are often considered brave, but through this collaboration, we aim to redefine what we mean by bravery – encouraging all individuals to embrace their brave, bold, and determined selves.“
Brian Dow, Chief Executive of Mental Health UK, added, “We are so proud and excited to launch this partnership. In PREM Rugby, we have a partner that shares our goal of giving people the tools to live well and to their full potential.
“We know that rugby can be a force for good, and want to show that seeing the players be bold and brave on the pitch is something that can translate into everyday life, whether it’s sharing your struggles and asking for support, seeking help to address a mounting pile of debt, or stepping out of your comfort zone to achieve a major goal in life.”
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