Revolutionary Partnership Agreed Between Welsh Rugby Players Association, Healix and Nuffield Health

The Welsh Rugby Players Association (WRPA) is delighted to announce the launch of their partnership with Healix Health and the UK's largest healthcare charity, Nuffield Health. This initiative is set to have a hugely beneficial effect on the quality of life of retired and retiring players.

Nuffield Health will become the WRPA's Official Healthcare Supplier, with retired and retiring professional rugby players being given access to Nuffield Health's first-class healthcare in South Wales and gym facilities throughout the UK. Starting from mid June, the Player Transition Programme will support them to be ‘life, work and sport ready’ when transitioning to the next stage of their life. They will be provided with access to physiotherapy and medical support as well as being given a 12 month membership at Nuffield Health’s 112 well-being and fitness facilities, to ensure they can lead a life that is not effected by the injuries and health costs that can occur as a result of playing professional rugby.

WRPA James King, Player Welfare & Membership Manager, welcomed the partnership, saying, “With this exciting new partnership, we will now be able to further support the players when they retire from professional rugby. The ability to use top class gym, wellbeing and healthcare facilities, plus having access to medical experts will ensure that the players are fit, healthy and able to achieve their goals in the next stages of their lives.

Director of Wellbeing, Wales & South West at Nuffield Health, Ceri Morgan said, "Our purpose is to build a healthier nation and we are thrilled that the Welsh Rugby Players Association and Healix are teaming up with our connected health and wellbeing services. We will provide retiring and retired professional players and their families with a range of benefits and access to our services. It's important to continue to support and give back to sports professionals who have given so much for their country. We look forward to getting to know and look after them."

Ian Talbot, CEO Healix Health, commented, “We are delighted to be included in this partnership which sets out to look after rugby players as they move into retirement from the sport. Players put their bodies on the line week in, week out, and it is only right that they can continue to receive the relevant medical care once their playing days are behind them. “

Health System Director Melanie Webber Maybank at Nuffield Health added, “We are very pleased to extend our support to retired players by offering access to our premier diagnostics, state-of-the-art surgical facilities and expert consultants. It's our privilege to provide top-tier care tailored to meet their specific needs”.