Inspiring Futures Across Richmond: Inside the Harlequins Foundation
At the Harlequins Foundation, the power of sport is used as a catalyst for real and lasting change. As the official charitable arm of Harlequin FC, the Foundation works to empower young people with the skills, confidence and resilience they need to succeed, both on and off the pitch.
Founded in 2015, the organisation has grown to become a key community partner across South West London, delivering a wide range of programmes focused on education, employability, wellbeing and inclusion. Its mission is clear:
Create opportunities for young people, particularly those facing barriers linked to inequality, and to help them unlock their full potential.
Supporting local communities across Richmond and beyond
The Foundation’s work spans six boroughs surrounding The Stoop, including Richmond upon Thames, where it plays a vital role in supporting underserved young people. Many of the communities it works with face complex challenges, from child poverty and low physical activity levels to gaps in educational attainment and mental health support.
By addressing these issues head-on, the Foundation provides tailored programmes that help young people build essential life skills such as teamwork, communication, leadership and resilience.
Programmes making a real difference
The Harlequins Foundation delivers a diverse portfolio of initiatives designed to meet young people where they are and support their individual journeys.
Key programmes include:
- HITZ – an award-winning programme helping 16-24 year olds gain qualifications and move into employment or further education
- METTLE – supporting mental wellbeing and emotional resilience
- SWITCH – encourages more girls to take part in sport by breaking down barriers to participation and creating a positive, inclusive environment where they feel confident, supported and inspired to get involved
- Project Rugby – Project Rugby introduces new communities to rugby, helping make the game more accessible to people who may not have had the opportunity to take part before
- Move. Learn. Grow. – working with schools to combine physical activity with essential skills development
- Holiday Activity & Food Programme – providing safe, active holiday provision alongside nutritious meals
Together, these programmes help young people build strong foundations for the future, using sport as a powerful vehicle for personal development.
Creating lasting impact through opportunity
The Foundation’s impact is both measurable and deeply personal. In the last year alone, it supported 9,823 young people and generated £4.66 million in social value across its communities.
Behind these numbers are powerful individual stories. Frankie, for example, joined the Foundation with ambitions of working in sport. Through its degree programme, he combined academic study with practical coaching experience, graduating with First-Class Honours and going on to build a career in the industry.
Stories like Frankie’s demonstrate how access to the right support and opportunities can transform a young person’s future.
How you can get involved
The Harlequins Foundation offers a variety of ways for individuals and businesses in Richmond to support its work. From volunteering and mentoring to fundraising and corporate partnerships, every contribution helps expand its reach and impact.
Volunteers can get involved in matchday activities, events and mentoring roles, while businesses can support through sponsorship, donations or by providing work experience opportunities. Community events such as fundraising challenges and the “Rival Ride” cycling initiative also offer engaging ways to take part.
Looking ahead
With an ambitious goal of positively impacting 25,000 young people, the Foundation is focused on growing its programmes and deepening its impact across Richmond and neighbouring boroughs.
By continuing to invest in education, wellbeing and inclusion, it aims to build a stronger, healthier and more connected community – one where every young person feels supported and empowered to thrive.
Through its work, the Harlequins Foundation is proving that sport is about far more than physical activity. It’s about building confidence, developing essential skills, and creating opportunities that can change lives – today and for generations to come.
Find out more
To learn more about the Harlequins Foundation or get involved, visit:
