The Community Integrated Care Learning Disability Super League made a triumphant return to the Magic Weekend, a compelling partnership that brought inclusivity to the forefront at St James’ Park on May 3rd and 4th, 2025.
This innovative initiative, a collaboration between Community Integrated Care and the Rugby Football League, garnered recognition with the Care Innovator Award at the 2025 Great British Care Awards. The program, aimed at empowering individuals with learning disabilities, offered a unique platform for personal growth and friendship.
Described as a non-competitive, accessible form of rugby league, the Learning Disability Super League provided participants with a chance to represent their favorite clubs while fostering independence and camaraderie.
Leeds Rhinos legend and Community Integrated Care ambassador, Jamie Jones-Buchanan, emphasized the profound impact of the program, stating, “It’s about changing lives on and off the field, enabling hope, independence, and opportunities for individuals to realize their dreams.”
Player testimonials underscored the transformative effects of the initiative, with significant improvements in confidence, physical activity levels, and the forging of new friendships reported by a majority of participants.
Mitch Woodham, a player from Leeds Rhinos LDSL, highlighted the significance of showcasing their skills at Magic Weekend, expressing gratitude for the opportunity to demonstrate their abilities to fans.
Comedian and RFL President, Adam Hills, praised rugby league’s commitment to inclusivity, citing the positive impact on players, families, and supporters, underscoring the importance of such events at St James’ Park.
The event featured LDSL showcases over the weekend, with teams from various Super League clubs participating in the celebration of inclusive rugby league.
John Hughes, Director of Partnerships and Communities at Community Integrated Care, lauded the collaborative effort behind LDSL, emphasizing the program’s mission to tackle inequality through sport.
As Rugby League’s Official Social Care Partner, Community Integrated Care spearheads various initiatives beyond LDSL, including educational programs, volunteering opportunities, and community engagement activities aimed at enhancing the quality of life for individuals.
Briony Davies, Partnerships Development Manager, highlighted the organization’s commitment to enabling individuals to live their best lives, showcasing the transformative power of sports in fostering inclusivity and combating inequality.
The success of the Learning Disability Super League serves as a testament to the impact of innovative partnerships and collaborative efforts in creating positive change within communities, demonstrating the potential of sports to drive social transformation.
Through its wide-ranging initiatives, Community Integrated Care continues to lead the way in leveraging the power of sports and social care to empower individuals, foster inclusivity, and promote overall well-being.
For more information on how Community Integrated Care is revolutionizing lives through sports and social care, visit their website at www.CommunityIntegratedCare.co.uk.
📰 Related Articles
- World Bank’s Holistic Approach Empowers Women Through Menstrual Hygiene
- Vota Palooza Music Festival Empowers Latino Communities Through Music
- Tom Trbojevic Considers Super League Move Amid NRL Uncertainty
- Toby Sexton Joins Catalans Dragons: NRL to Super League
- Sunita Kotnala Empowers Women Through Women’s Shed Canberra