Matt's Charities
SpecialEffect helps young people with disabilities to use leisure technology in the following ways:
By adapting, developing and modifying cutting edge technology – for example eye-controlled technology, a special strength of SpecialEffect.
By supporting hospitals, hospices, special schools, etc. in finding the right leisure technology for those young people who need it most, when they need it most.
By loaning specialised leisure technology to young people who have a sudden serious injury or illness.
Our team of specialist professionals have many years of experience in designing and adapting technology to help young people with physical and learning difficulties. Success with using this technology can lead to huge gains in self-confidence and motivation, and can provide a way for young people with disabilities to compete with others on a level playing field.
We’re dedicated to providing the expertise necessary to enable everyone to enjoy the fun, friendship and challenges that can be found in the world of computer games and leisure.
It is every rugby player’s dream to combine his job with his passion and pull on the jersey for his career, his club and ultimately his country. But what happens when it all goes wrong? A bad tackle, an unfortunate accident, an illness off the pitch - who is there to pick up the pieces?
The RPA Benevolent Fund, The Players' Charity, was established in 2001 (as the PRA Benevolent Fund) to provide financial support for players who have been forced to retire from the game due to serious injury or illness, and support players’ families in the event of their untimely death.
As an increasing number of players suffer career ending injury, it is imperative that the Benevolent Fund continues to grow. Through the generous support of businesses, rugby supporters and the players themselves, the RPA Benevolent Fund has been able to raise thousands of pounds each year to help players and their families who are in need.
Through the RPA Benevolent Fund we are able to assist players with essential medical costs and provide a support network which the player or family can turn to for help, advice or encouragement. The Benevolent Fund is dependent on generous corporate and individual support. As an increasing number of players become casualties of the professional era, it is vital that the Benevolent Fund continues to grow.
The RFU Injured Players Foundation (IPF) supports people who sustain a catastrophic injury while playing rugby. The charity provides help and support for both players and their families in the early months after sustaining an injury and during the long term recovery process.
The IPF also incorporates the former SPIRE Rugby Trust charity.
In addition to this support, the charity takes an active approach to conducting and supporting research and education aimed at preventing injuries, while always working to identify how injured players can be helped more effectively.
