Scarlets Community Foundation has teamed up with the star* scheme, which provides young people and families with support and mentorship through rugby.
star* scheme uses engagement with grassroots rugby clubs and hubs to help overcome the impact of adverse childhood experiences.
The scheme has been working closely with the English Premiership sides and their community clubs and the Scarlets are now the first club in Wales to partner with star* and have a regional manager based at Parc y Scarlets to cover the Scarlets region.
Research shows that in order for young people to overcome the impact of Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACES), they need to build resilience through relationships with trusted adults. Grassroots rugby is the perfect space for this to happen.
star* scheme provides access and resources that a young person and family might need to enable them to engage with the sport, from kit to transport. They work with rugby clubs to provide specific training to ensure adults are informed and equipped to provide the support and space that a young person needs.
The Foundation and star* Wales scheme enjoyed a successful launch at Parc y Scarlets earlier this month with star* ambassador Ioan Lloyd, the Scarlets and Wales fly-half, on hand to support the event along with Huw Thomas, CEO and shareholder of Puffin Produce, who are a sponsor of Scarlets and star* Wales.
The launch was attended by a number of the Scarlets’ community clubs, along with Dyfed Powys Police and Public Health Wales.
star* Regional Manager Jonathan Griffiths said: “star are thrilled to be partnering with Scarlets as the first Welsh star region. We know the difference that rugby makes to the lives of young people and can’t wait to see the impact that we are going to have.”
Scarlets Community Foundation manager Paul Fisher said: “star is a fantastic programme that provides support to young people through rugby and we at the Scarlets are proud to be supporting this across the region.”
Pictured are Paul Fisher, Scarlets Community Foundation Manager. Scarlets player and star ambassador Ioan Lloyd, star* Regional manager Jonathan Griffiths, star Chair of Trustees Dan Wooler and CEO of Puffin Produce, Huw Thomas.
For more information on the star* scheme go to starscheme.co.uk