British Airways Launches Grassroots Rugby Fund to Boost Community Clubs

British Airways is deepening its commitment to rugby and community sport with the launch of the British Airways Spaces for All Fund, a new initiative supporting grassroots rugby clubs across England. Over the next three years, the fund will back more than 30 community clubs, helping to make rugby more inclusive and welcoming at the local level.

In partnership with England Rugby, the airline’s first direct investment in grassroots sport will help clubs upgrade their facilities, improving access and creating better spaces for players, families, and supporters alike.

Plymouth Albion RFC and Plymstock Oaks are the first two clubs to benefit.

Plymouth Albion RFC, a well-established club with two men’s teams and youth sides at every age group, has recently launched a growing women’s rugby programme. With 30 women already registered, the club has ambitions to expand further — adding a second women’s team and creating an all-girls rugby section from under-8s to under-18s. Currently delivering rugby in local schools, the club also plans to introduce girls-only rugby sessions in the next academic year. Backed by the new fund, Plymouth Albion will renovate one of its social spaces, making it a more welcoming hub for team meals, club events, and community activities.

Plymstock Oaks, a small, community-focused club, is on a mission to rebuild and grow. Once competing at Level 4 of the women’s rugby pyramid, the club is working hard to strengthen its women’s team and expand its girls’ rugby offer. By focusing on creating the right playing opportunities, Plymstock Oaks aims to retain and develop its players for the long term. With support from British Airways, the club will upgrade facilities next to its main pitch, improving access and amenities for players, families, and visitors.

Calum Laming, British Airways’ Chief Customer Officer, said:
“We’re proud of our long-standing partnership with England Rugby over the past seven years, and the launch of our new sports fund marks an exciting new chapter. Rugby is more than just a game — it brings people together through community, spirit, and tradition. Through the Spaces For All Fund, we’re supporting clubs at the heart of communities and driving positive change for players, volunteers, and fans alike.”

The announcement comes as women’s rugby continues its rapid growth in England. Registered female players have increased by 38% since 2021, and England Rugby is aiming for 100,000 women and girls playing the game by 2027.

Alex Teasdale, Executive Director of Women’s Game at England Rugby, added:
“We are delighted to partner with British Airways, who understand what really matters to our sport. The British Airways Spaces for All Fund will help community rugby clubs enhance their offerings and ensure women and girls get the best possible experience.”

British Airways, the Official Airline Partner of England Rugby, continues to support both the England Men’s team and the Red Roses, flying them around the world and backing their success on and off the pitch.

With this new fund, the airline is not only reinforcing its ties to the national teams but also investing in the future of rugby — starting at the grassroots and building from the ground up.