Grassroots rugby initiative gives crime the boot
A national children’s charity has partnered with Greater Manchester Police (GMP) to steer young people away from crime and violence through grassroots rugby.
The collaboration between GMP’s XCalibur Task Force and star scheme provides at-risk youth with a positive diversion, inspirational role models, and a supportive community to help them build a brighter future.
Earlier this year, a young man of mixed English and Italian heritage, who was on the periphery of crime, was introduced to the scheme by Detective Constable William Smith - a dedicated rugby enthusiast and key advocate of the initiative within GMP.
With the programme’s support, he has begun transforming his life, developing a passion for both watching and playing rugby - often alongside DC Smith. Playing together has strengthened their bond, fostered mutual respect, and demonstrated the power of sport in building positive relationships.
To celebrate his progress, the charity and DC Smith have arranged a once-in-a-lifetime experience: meeting the England and Italy rugby teams at Allianz Stadium on Sunday, 9 March, ahead of their Six Nations clash.
DC Smith, a lifelong rugby fan and key supporter of star*, is thrilled to see the impact rugby is having on young people’s lives.
He said: “Working alongside star* scheme, we want the initiative to create safer communities by reducing levels of crime and violence, increase social action, and improve the wellbeing of young people.
“I believe that access to sport and sporting opportunities changes lives and local communities for the better. The project has started to achieve this and has steadily begun to make a real difference.”
Steve Grainger, RFU Executive Director of Rugby Development said: “One of the unique abilities of rugby is to provide not only a healthy sporting environment for individuals but also surround them with a supportive and family-like community.
“It's great to see the work the star* scheme has been achieved with RFU clubs in England, and we look forward to seeing them broaden the opportunities of even more young people in this country.”
star* supports young people and families to overcome the impact of childhood or community trauma through engagement with grassroots rugby.
Founded 5 years ago, their continued approach focuses on the well-being and achievements of the young people they work with. star* works on the ground, alongside young people, their families and local clubs to make space for young people to discover their potential and make better life choices.
Today, star* scheme is affiliated with over 90 grassroots clubs across England and Wales, as well as eight of the ten Premiership clubs, and has positively impacted the lives of countless young people and their families.
If your club is interested in becoming affiliated with star* scheme, visit their website for more information.
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