Award-Winning Partnership Returns to Magic Weekend

The Community Integrated Care Learning Disability Super League took centre stage at this year’s Magic Weekend, bringing life-changing inclusion to the pitch at St James’ Park, on 3^rd and  4^th May 2025.

An inspiring and ground-breaking initiative, the Community Integrated Care Learning Disability Super League (LDSL) is the result of a pioneering partnership between leading social care charity Community Integrated Care and the Rugby Football League. Recently honoured with the Care Innovator Award at the 2025 Great British Care Awards, the programme returned to the home of Newcastle United for the biggest inclusive rugby league event of the year.

“It’s about changing lives on and off the field,” said Jamie Jones-Buchanan, Leeds Rhinos legend and Community Integrated Care ambassador. “We can enable hope, independence and opportunity, and support people’s greatest dreams to come true.”

The Learning Disability Super League is a non-competitive, accessible version of rugby league that empowers people with learning disabilities to represent the clubs they love. It offers participants more than just the opportunity to play – it creates a platform for independence, friendship, and personal growth.

A recent survey of players revealed the profound effect the programme is having:

• 88% said it helped them achieve their dreams
• 94% reported improved confidence
• 96% became more physically active
• 93% made new friends
• 92% felt more independent

Mitch Woodham, Leeds Rhinos LDSL player, said, “I’ve played in four Magic Weekends, and it’s great that we get to play on the pitch at half-time. It’s good for the fans to see what we can all do.”

His mum, Sharon, adds, “They just all play for each other. Inclusion and acceptance is what they all crave in life – it’s given Mitch so much confidence not just in rugby, but in all walks of life.”

Magic Weekend hosted LDSL showcases on both Saturday 3rd and Sunday4th May, with teams from across the Super League taking part.

Comedian and presenter Adam Hills, said, “Rugby league’s commitment to inclusion is one of the reasons I’m so proud to be RFL President. I’ve seen first-hand what this means to players, families and fans – it’s brilliant to see them bring more magic to St James’ Park.”

This celebration at Magic Weekend is just one of many ways that Community Integrated Care is driving change through sport.

John Hughes, Director of Partnerships and Communities at Community Integrated Care, said, “The LDSL is a true team effort. From club foundations and volunteers to families and support workers – this movement is built on passion, purpose and belief.”

“We’re working with Sport England, the RFL and others to use sport to tackle inequality. And this is just the beginning.”

As Rugby League’s Official Social Care Partner, the charity also leads other innovative programmes including:

• On The Same Team – a school education programme challenging bullying and discrimination.
• Inclusive Volunteering – empowering people to develop life skills through volunteering.
• Dementia cafes and community sports clubs – reducing loneliness and promoting wellbeing.

Briony Davies, Partnerships Development Manager, said, “Our mission is to help people live the Best Life Possible.”

“The LDSL proves what’s possible when creativity, care, and collaboration come together—it’s one of the world’s most innovative ways to tackle inequality.”

Find out more about how Community Integrated Care is transforming lives through sport and social care at www.CommunityIntegratedCare.co.uk