Veterans Fund Programme: Pearson Engineering Partner With Newcastle Rugby Foundation

It is part of Newcastle Rugby Foundation’s Rugby+ Futures programme which is a six-part emotional intelligence initiative that covers the four key pillars of self awareness, self management, social awareness and relationship management.

The Veterans Fund is built on the belief that the values at the heart of rugby — teamwork, discipline, respect and resilience — closely mirror those forged in military life. The programme combines:

• Employability support and mentoring
• CV building and transferable skills workshops
• Confidence-boosting rugby sessions tailored for all abilities
• Pathways into training, volunteering, and paid work

The initiative has been co-designed with veterans and is backed by Pearson Engineering. The programme aims to support around 30 veterans in the North East, helping them reintegrate into normal life through honing key employability skills and finding belonging in a positive, progressive environment.

Ian Bell, Chief Executive at Pearson Engineering said:

“Veterans are a key part of our workforce. As an employer that recruits and trains veterans, and as an engineering company making life-saving equipment for the Armed Forces, we want to tackle the challenges associated with service life and the transition from active duty to civilian life.”

“The core values of rugby can be relatable to those who have served in the Armed Forces. Values such as teamwork, discipline, respect and trust are all transferable to everyday life. Using sport as a positive tool to develop the key life skills taken from this programme will create opportunities for veterans in the North East.”

Melanie Magee, CEO of Newcastle Rugby Foundation added:

“Many veterans face a difficult journey back into civilian life — this programme is about giving them purpose, confidence and support, using the powerful community and structure of rugby.”

“We’re proud to be working alongside Pearson Engineering to deliver something meaningful that marks the sacrifice of our past while building futures.”