In July 2020, The HM Chief Inspector of Prisons, said: “There is now a real risk of psychological decline among prisoners, which needs to be addressed urgently, so that prisoners, children and detainees do not suffer long term damage to their mental health and well-being, and prisons can fulfil their rehabilitative goals”. 69% of young offenders reoffend within one year of release and 52% of male prison leavers don’t have any qualifications.

Sport is a dynamic way to engage young people trapped in the criminal justice system and build positive mentoring relationships with them. We deliver the Rugby Academy, an 8-week, programme that uses rugby and mentoring to engage and mentor young men in prison. On release they can join the Fitness Academy where they receive one-to-one mentoring. Graduates continue onto the Leadership Academy where they support community fitness sessions, thus becoming leaders in the community themselves.