A Wigan borough training firm and rugby club are teaming up to tackle unemployment issues in the area
A training company and rugby club have come together to launch a community event that focuses on tackling unemployment in Wigan borough, and the pathways that being involved in sport provides.
On September 5 from 10am to 7pm Leigh RUFC will host a day with DMR Training that grew from a simple idea that communities thrive when people have access to opportunity, and how the power of sport can accelerate this process.
Locals will have the opportunity to speak with employers, talk to training providers, get real career guidance, and explore routes into construction and other sectors.
One in 20 individuals is unemployed in the North West, according to the Office For National Statistics.
There are a huge number of workers needed in the construction sector in the coming years, an industry which 66 per cent of young adults view positively.
DMR aims to use this day to encourage employers and local residents to explore opportunities that could help close the skills gap the sector currently faces.
Across the club’s grounds, visitors will find mixed‑tag rugby played across multiple pitches, an intergenerational bowls tournament designed to reduce social isolation, and a large Opportunities Village showcasing employers, training providers and community organisations.
Families can enjoy entertainment, food vendors and community activities, while DMR founder Dave Radley and guest speakers share stories about resilience, transition through and from sport and opportunity.
The day also aligns with Leigh RUFC’s first home fixture of the season, and there will also be awards, presentations and an evening celebration with music, food and drinks.
Both organisations intend this to become a regular fixture.
The story behind the day includes the experience of Leigh RUFC’s long‑standing friend Mr Radley, whose professional rugby career ended through injury before he found his footing in construction and built a national training provider.
He said: “My own journey from a career-ending injury into construction showed me first-hand how important clear, accessible pathways are.
"The biggest barrier is awareness. This event is about showing people that there is a future beyond the game, and that with the right support, resilience can become progression.
“Too many people still don’t realise how many routes into construction, apprenticeships and skilled careers are available to them.