The ORLFC Foundation proudly announces its official launch, following the successful granting of charitable status.

The ORLFC Foundation is proud to announce its official launch, following the successful granting of charitable status.

The milestone marks a significant step forward in the organisation’s mission to leverage the power of sport to inspire and empower individuals across the borough by offering a wide range of programmes and initiatives.

Founded with a clear vision to tackle key social challenges in education, health, and social inclusion, the ORLFC Foundation is already making a meaningful impact, through the partnerships created with key supporters. With over £100,000 invested in upgrading and renovating the club's training ground, Netpar Training Centre, on Fields New Road, the site has been transformed into a thriving community hub, now in use seven days a week.

The Foundation has expanded its pathway programme to include age groups from under-11s through to under-18s, and is set to launch a new educational academy in partnership with Oldham College this September, enabling students to tailor their studies alongside their rugby league development.

Gaining charitable status formally recognises the work the Foundation has already accomplished, while opening up new opportunities to secure funding and develop strategic partnerships that will further strengthen and expand its impact.

CEO of the ORLFC Foundation, Chris Chamberlain said “This is a major milestone for us. It validates the purpose behind everything we are working to achieve and allows us to take our ambitions further.

“Oldham is a borough that faces real challenges, with deep-rooted deprivation and inequality, but it is also a place full of opportunity, resilience, and potential.

“Too often it receives negative attention, yet through the power of sport we can change that narrative – bringing positivity, pride, and hope back into the community. 

“We believe that by working collectively, not in isolation, we can make a meaningful difference. Rugby league, and the growth of the Roughyeds, shows what’s possible when people come together with a shared purpose. 

“By harnessing that momentum through a charitable foundation, we can go further – tackling social inequalities, improving health and wellbeing, strengthening community cohesion, and creating real pathways for social mobility. 

“Whether through volunteering, education, or employment opportunities, our aim is simple: to use sport as a force for lasting, positive change across Oldham and beyond.”

ORLFC Foundation Chair John Townsend said:

“I was delighted to take part in the launch of the new and independent, Oldham Rugby League 1876 Foundation.

"As a charitable organisation, it will be eligible to apply for a much greater number of grants than previously, thereby increasing the potential, social impact that the Foundation can have on the various communities within Oldham."

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