RFU Injured Players Foundation

The IPF funds individual welfare grants for rehabilitation, home adaptations, equipment, transport, education, emergency relief, and financial hardship directly linked to qualifying rugby injuries that occur within RFU-affiliated clubs or schools in England. It also supports non-catastrophic injuries causing distress, channelled through clubs or schools. Beyond individual support, the foundation funds research collaborations focused on spinal cord injuries and injury prevention initiatives, including first aid resources and coach education. All funding relates to rugby union activity under the governance of the RFU in England.

Support is available to rugby union players of any age or level who are injured while playing or training in RFU-governed settings in England. Eligible legal entities include community groups and academic institutions, though the IPF primarily works with individual players, their families, and directly with clubs or schools. The foundation does not accept unsolicited applications from charities or external organisations; support is initiated through injury reports to the RFU or IPF, with case workers then triaging needs.

The IPF does not support injuries that occur outside rugby union, injuries sustained in other sports, or general hardship unrelated to a qualifying rugby injury. Applications from organisations or individuals not connected to RFU-governed rugby in England are not considered.

The IPF provides needs-led grants that cover a wide range of individual costs, from equipment and home adaptations to education and emergency relief. Funding is delivered as part of a lifelong case management approach, with support tailored to each player’s circumstances. The foundation does not accept unsolicited applications; it works reactively based on injury reports and proactively through research and prevention partnerships.