Duchy of Cornwall named Cornish Pirates Foundation founding partner

Two organisations with deep roots in Cornwall have joined forces, and schools and community groups across the county are set to feel it first.

The Duchy of Cornwall has been announced as the official Founding Partner of the Cornish Pirates Foundation, in a partnership both sides say is built on a shared mission to improve lives and strengthen communities.

New programmes for schools and community groups

Cornish Pirates Foundation Co-chair Nicola Lloyd said the effects would be felt straight away.

“This is a visionary alliance that will be felt immediately by young and old across the county,” she said. “The Pirates Foundation is able through this partnership to launch new programmes with schools and community groups that bring tangible physical and mental benefits to young people.”

The Foundation works alongside the Cornish Pirates to deliver structured programmes built on rugby’s core values of teamwork, respect, discipline and resilience, with the aim of creating positive change for individuals and communities.

Players and coaches giving their time

Pirates CEO Sally Pettipher said the club’s players and coaches would be closely involved.

“Our players and coaches will be working closely with the Foundation and the Duchy of Cornwall to encourage more people to participate more regularly in projects that genuinely build life changing outcomes,” Sally said.

“The appeal of recognised and respected professional rugby players giving their time, brings greater strength to each project, meaning more people get more involved and gain vastly more benefit.”

What the Duchy of Cornwall says

Geraint Richards at the Duchy of Cornwall said: “As the founding partner of the Pirates Foundation, we are proud to support an organisation that is helping to strengthen communities across Cornwall. Sport has a unique ability to connect people, build confidence and improve wellbeing.

“Together, we share a commitment to creating opportunities that enable people and communities to thrive, fostering healthier, more resilient places for future generations.”

Beyond the 80 minutes

The Pirates Foundation describes its work as reaching “Beyond the 80 minutes”. Its programmes are aimed at strengthening communities and supporting individuals across health and education, and it also campaigns for positive change across the Duchy.

📷Neil Smith, Geraint Richards, Nicola Lloyd and Dan Hiscocks