In March 2020, rugby was seized by the Welsh Rugby Union due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Although rugby may well have stopped, the ‘Wizards’ certainly did not.
Immediately as a club we were proactive and partnered with Age Connects Neath Port Talbot, a charity that works closely with the elderly within the community. The club saw it as their duty to provide a service to those who were left vulnerable. The health and wellbeing of our community and the wider public was our absolute priority.
Over twenty players had DBS checks and were volunteering by March 23rd, 2020. Each player had on average five vulnerable people/ families that they picked up/ dropped off shopping to, arranged collection of prescriptions and much more.
Aberavon RFC Chairman Andrew John commented.
“As a club in the heart of Port Talbot we will do as much as we possibly can to help the elderly and people in need in our town.
We are all in completely uncharted territory at present so if there is anything we can do to assist please contact us via the Age Connects NPT.
At times like this communities need to pull together and remain strong – help is there if you need us”.
Dean Richards, Age Connects NPT Chief Officer added.
“We are extremely grateful for the fantastic offer of support from Aberavon RFC who will provide much needed support and resources to enable us to provide essential services to some of the most vulnerable people in our community.
In these extremely challenging times which are continually developing, we will continue to follow advice and guidance from public health and government services, with the best interest of older people at heart at all times.
For information on how you can help with our continued efforts, please visit our website or social media accounts which will be regularly updated”.