London Irish Foundation

Who we are?

London Irish Foundation is the official charity of London Irish RFC, working to use the power of sport to deliver life-changing community programmes. From school outreach and youth mentoring to inclusion through rugby, we champion opportunity for all — especially those who face disadvantage or exclusion.

Why we partnered with kitround

Access to kit is a hidden barrier that prevents too many young people from getting involved in rugby. Through our partnership with kitround, we can turn unused kit into opportunity — creating new pathways into sport while reducing waste. It aligns with our values of inclusion, sustainability and community leadership.

Our objectives together

In Spring 2025, we launched a kit collection and resale campaign with kitround, engaging players, fans and families to donate their pregamed kit. Items were cleaned, listed, and resold via a dedicated London Irish kitshop on kitround.com, with proceeds funding our inclusion programmes.

Over 500 items were collected across two home games, supported by social media activations, in-stadium signage, and drop-off points at our training centre. Notably, former players contributed signed memorabilia to help raise visibility and funds.

Proceeds supported our Play Together sessions, enabling young people with disabilities to access adaptive rugby coaching and equipment.

Group of people posing in front of a green banner with logos and text.

"This isn’t just about kit — it’s about inclusion, dignity, and giving every child a place in the game."

Andy Keast, CEO

What's next?

We’re now planning to expand the programme across our partner schools — making it easy for students and families to both donate and access quality sports kit. With kitround, we’ll pilot mobile collection bins, digital vouchers for families in need, and a rugby-specific impact leaderboard to reward participation.

Why we exist

In the UK an estimated 100,000 tonnes of sportswear ends up in landfill each year.

Why we exist

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