Red Devils tackle the tough stuff

Tackle the Tough Stuff shines a light on various social and wellbeing issues faced by the Rugby League family, and while the campaign only runs for two weeks of the season the sports' commitment to these topics remains firm all year round. One club who has committed to supporting their local community in many forms this year is Salford Red Devils. So far, they've become Super League's first wholly community-owned club, hosted an Armed Forces Day in their home-tie against Wigan, devoted their clash against the Rhinos to Mental Health, and highlighted the brilliant work of the St Anns Hospice during their local derby against the Leopards.

Tim Lafai is one of many players proud to be part of these initiatives, telling us "Since arriving at Salford, it's really obvious how important the club is to the local area. You can see how close-nit the community is on a match day; but away from the pitch, the connection is meaningful and something I'm proud to be involved in.

"It is a real community club - obviously now owned by supporters too, but working local food banks, serving Christmas dinner at St Ann's Hospice, and then some of the activities at the games this year... it all comes together into something really special."

Continuing their efforts, this September Salford Red Devils will partner up with Greater Manchester Mayor's charity partner to tackle homelessness in the area. From the 8th to the 11th of September the Red Devils will be joining forces with the Salford community for the 'Circle Home' campaign. This initiative sees members of the community walking 300km around the city, making it Greater Manchester's biggest ever sponsored walk. The clubs home tie against Warrington Wolves on the 8th of September will be dedicated to Circle Home, inviting walkers to watch the clash in a united front against homelessness.

Salford Red Devils have a long history of showing unwavering commitment to the community, with their dedication extending into various charitable endeavours. As Salford Red Devils are community owned, the club have always looked for opportunities to influence and reach to make a difference in peoples lives, and this campaign represents that.   

Paul King, the Managing Director of Salford Red Devils says "We are so proud to give our support to this campaign and to be working with the Greater Manchester Mayor's Charity in spotlighting and tackling one of our region's most urgent of social issues.

"We are committed to being there for our community - just as our community are so often there for us - and we look forward to welcoming everyone to the Salford Stadium in September."

With the campaign attracting publicity and attention across the region, Greater Manchester mayor Andy Burnham said - "I am always inspired by the community of Greater Manchester coming out in droves to support Greater Manchester Mayor's Charity in their mission to end rough sleeping and homelessness across our city-region. What we're doing is working. But we cannot stop now."

Greater Manchester, like many other cities, has faced a growing homelessness crisis in recent years. Economic challenges, lack of affordable housing, social inequalities and wider issues have left a significant proportion of the population homeless. With the homelessness rate increasing annually, Andy Burnham is correct. The work needs to continue to combat this growing issue.

The Circle Home campaign is a powerful example of how sports can be a force for good, bringing communities together to address pressing social issues such as homelessness.