Atlas Foundation Ireland

Atlas Ireland aims to use the values of rugby - discipline, tolerance, and respect - to promote peace and social incluson across Ireland. Led by Atlas rugby Champion, Shane Byrne, Atlas Ireland is partnered with International Mixed Ability Sports to offer marginalised young people a safe space where they feel valued and empowered. Through mixed ability rugby sessions, young people experiencing trauma, or mental health challenges, have access to an inclusive and fun envrironment that breaks down barriers and stigma, creating long lasting, supportive relationships.

Atlas Ireland is part of a larger Atlas community, spanning projects across the globe, from America, Africa, and Asia. In the UK, we have recently partnered with star* scheme and The Matt Ratana Rugby Foundation to launch our new project, TackleLondon. TackleLondon is built of the same values as Atlas Ireland, and aims to give young people facing trauma, neglect, abuse, or mental health difficulties, a safe, inclusive rugby family. Working with schools and grassroots rugby clubs, young people are given consistent support and access to trusting relationships with coaches and teammates, which are crucial to overcoming the negative consequences that are sadly common following experiences of trauma or neglect. Find out more about TackleLondon, or our other projects, on our social media @theatlascharity.

Thank you for your continued support, with your help we can make a transformative impact on some of the most disadvantaged young people in Ireland and across the world.