On Thursday 8th May, as the nation marked the 80th anniversary of VE Day, Newcastle Rugby Foundation proudly launched the Veterans Fund — a powerful new programme supporting former service personnel in their transition to civilian life.
Held at Kingston Park Stadium, the launch event brought together partners, veterans, and supporters to celebrate the start of a life-changing initiative co-designed with veterans and delivered in partnership with Pearson Engineering.
Supporting Veterans Through Rugby
Part of our Rugby+ Futures programme, the Veterans Fund uses the sport’s core values — teamwork, discipline, respect and resilience — to help veterans rebuild confidence, develop key skills, and reconnect with their community.
This innovative programme offers:
- Employability support and mentoring
- CV building and transferable skills workshops
- Inclusive rugby sessions for all abilities
- Pathways into training, volunteering and paid work
The Veterans Fund will support around 30 veterans across the North East in its initial phase.
Built on Shared Values
“Many veterans face a difficult journey back into civilian life,” said Melanie Magee, CEO of Newcastle Rugby Foundation. “This programme is about giving them purpose, confidence and support, using the powerful community and structure of rugby.”
Pearson Engineering, a Newcastle-based defence engineering company, brings vital experience and commitment to the project. CEO Ian Bell commented:
“Veterans are a key part of our workforce. The core values of rugby mirror those of the Armed Forces. Using sport as a positive tool to develop life skills will create new opportunities for veterans in the North East.”
Looking Forward
With referrals coming through partner organisations and local networks, the Veterans Fund aims to become a cornerstone of veteran support in the region — building a bridge between past service and future potential.
To register your interest for the programme, please fill out the form below:
To learn more about the programme, please contact pete.corker@newcastle-falcons.co.uk
