WRU to revamp £2.84m funding for community clubs
The Welsh Rugby Union (WRU) is revamping the way in which it shares almost £3m in funding the 276 community clubs in Wales.Governing body chiefs say "for the first time" the money distributed from the 2026-27 onwards will acknowledge off as well as on-field "success" with the aim of creating "quality, resilient, sustainable and thriving clubs".Targets have been set by the WRU for clubs to achieve by 2030 with 95% of them establishing plans for club development as well as Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) schemes to show "they are welcoming, inclusive and safe environments".The third aim is for all the clubs to "maintain a rolling programme of self-assessment, which ensures they are well governed, culturally astute, modern and well run".
The "major cultural shift" detailed in a WRU statement, external comes after a year in which officials met club representatives throughout the nation.The plan's aims include helping clubs become "funding ready" to ensure they can share in grants and to provide them "with easily accessible digital templates and online resources to ensure all meet minimum operating standards".WRU executive director of community Geraint John, who led the review into grassroots funding, said: "The new model reflects the reality that our modern community rugby clubs must focus just as much on culture, inclusion and governance as they do on performance."We are rewarding those who are proactive in developing junior participation and community links, and who commit to building welcoming, well-run club environments. This is an essential part of future-proofing our clubs."John Manders is a WRU board member and also chairs the the governing body's community game board.He said: "We believe this new model will transform club rugby and give many of our clubs the opportunity to apply for greater funding."The model is the result of months of collaboration and consultation with our clubs."
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