First Bus helps tackle unemployment for parents of junior rugby players

First Bus has teamed up with Hunslet Rugby Foundation (HRF) to support the parents of children participating in junior rugby with an outreach programme to help end unemployment or get back into work after a break from raising a family.

The bus operator is providing workshops at HRF’s premises in the Belle Isle Welcome Centre to develop employability skills and build confidence, including interview technique and  CV writing. The potential to offer work experience placements and apprenticeships at First Bus depots is also planned.

Michael Nuttall, Foundation Manager, said: “This year, we are excited to announce a new partnership with First Bus, focusing on supporting unemployed parents of the children we work with in schools to get back into work.

“We know that many parents face challenges in re-entering employment, including confidence, childcare pressures and transport limitations. By working together with First Bus, we aim to remove these barriers and open new pathways for parents to access opportunities that will improve the wellbeing of their families.”

The Foundation is chaired by Father Chris Buckley from the nearby St John’s and St Barnaby’s Church and works across south Leeds, providing youth clubs, breakfast clubs and a growing junior rugby programme, to encourage people to discover their potential and play an active role in their community.

First Bus will use its social media channels to grow awareness of HRF services and support fundraising activities.

Mubs Mahmed, Community & Social Value Partner at First Bus in West Yorkshire, said: “Our ambition is to complement the work of the Foundation and help create a holistic approach to supporting families in the community.

“One of our depots, Hunslet Park, is in the heart of the area. This enables us to draw on the expertise of our team to help adults locally to improve employment and training opportunities.”

Hunslet Rugby Foundation is among a group of social value projects involving young people, disadvantaged communities, women and girls and education that First Bus is partnering with to support objectives in life skills, careers and youth opportunities, crime prevention and safety. 

Picture caption: Mubs Mahmed (right) and Michael Nuttall outside the Foundation's base in Belle Isle Welcome Centre.

Ends

About Hunslet Rugby Foundation

At Hunslet Rugby Foundation, we believe in using the power of sport to promote the values of a good human being while building stronger, healthier communities. Since 2013, we have been at the heart of South Leeds, creating opportunities for people of all ages to improve their health, develop confidence, and feel connected within their community.

In 2025, our team has already delivered over 4,000 hours of activity across 38 schools, engaging with more than 30,000 children, and providing introductions to sport and the benefits of a healthy lifestyle.