Rugby League Cares would like to clarify its position regarding the wellbeing support provided to staff and players of Salford Red Devils during this difficult time.
Most people will be aware that RL Cares is responsible for delivering the sport’s player wellbeing programmes, which have been the subject of some criticism in the last few days.
Throughout the ongoing financial crisis at Salford, RL Cares has done all in its power to support the wellbeing of both the club’s players and staff. This has included:
- Weekly visits to the club by our Player Wellbeing Manager (and former Salford player) Adrian Morley to meet players and offer emotional support;
- 24/7 access to complimentary and totally confidential psychotherapy support for all players and their families;
- Signposting to specially-created player-focused finance webinars featuring advice on money issues and debt management.
In addition, at the end of April 2025 RL Cares wrote to Salford Devils offering to embed a member of the charity’s staff within the club to provide full-time support to players. The club has yet to respond to this unprecedented offer, which remains on the table.
RL Cares also facilitates regular meetings for all club welfare staff where they are able to share best practice and support each other during difficult periods throughout the season.
All Super League players are also able to access a range of training and education grants to support their ongoing professional development, which becomes more important in times of uncertainty.
RL Cares is acutely aware of the challenges and hardships being experienced by everyone affected by the situation at Salford and will continue to provide support when and where we can.
Whilst we have made our concerns known to the RFL and are in regular contact with the governing body, it must be remembered that RL Cares is an independent charity which plays no role in the governance of the sport, nor in the decision-making process of clubs or their directors.