A new charity is aiming to break down barriers to sport by making rugby more accessible for all ages and abilities.
The East Lancashire Community Foundation (ELCF) plans to deliver rugby programmes across the region, from pre-school sessions to walking rugby for the over-50s.
The foundation brings together five partner clubs, Blackburn, Burnley, Clitheroe, Colne & Nelson, and Rossendale, under a single charitable structure and operates independently with its own trustees and governance.
John Dickinson, chair of trustees at the ELCF, said: “Rugby gave a lot of us in this region our closest friendships and our best years and I’ve never accepted that it should depend on where you live or what your family can afford.
“That’s the gap this foundation exists to close.
- Celebrate our Walking Rugby retro-style font & rose design, showcasing what the sport is all about, slower pace, same passion, which all Walking Rugby players are proud to play! ‘Legends Never Run’ during their favourite rugby game & healthy pastime.
Last update on 2026-10-07 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API. Walking Football Limited is also an Amazon Associate and earns a commission from qualifying purchases
“Five clubs have joined together to back something that serves the whole of East Lancashire and every community here will see the benefit equally.”
East Lancashire Community Foundation (ELCF)
The charity’s programmes address barriers such as cost, transport, confidence, disability, and age.
Support includes funded kit and travel for young people from disadvantaged families, sessions for children with special educational needs and disabilities, and walking rugby for people over 50.
The foundation will also run affordable holiday camps and deliver tag rugby in primary schools, secondary schools, and post-16 provision.
Rugratz sessions will be available for children aged three to five.
Programmes will begin across all five partner areas from September.
The foundation is currently seeking support from businesses and individuals.
Schools, businesses, and individuals interested in getting involved, whether by booking sessions, sponsoring programmes, volunteering, or donating, can contact the ELCF at contact@eastlancsfoundation.com
#walkingrugby #walkingsports #walkingsport
