East Lancashire Community Foundation appoints Simon Finnan as Foundation Lead

Simon has been involved in Rugby Coaching for the past 20+ years, first as a volunteer and then as a self-employed sports coach. He has already coached in schools, colleges, clubs and community, holding an England Rugby Advanced Coaching Award (Level 3). Developing a pathway from complete beginners who have never played the game, to try it in school, onto the club and then enjoy the game for years.

As Foundation Lead, Simon will oversee day-to-day delivery of the Foundation's school and community programmes, working across all five partner clubs - Blackburn, Burnley, Clitheroe, Colne & Nelson, and Rossendale to grow participation and build lasting relationships with schools and community groups across East Lancashire. He will split his time between coaching delivery and project leadership, supported by Next Steps Sports.

Delivery begins in September, with the Foundation's first sessions reaching primary school children across the region many in areas where access to organised sport is limited by cost, transport or simply the absence of a local offer. Alongside this the Foundation's Over 50s Walking Rugby project in Rossendale will bring older residents together for weekly activity and social contact, tackling the isolation and inactivity that affect so many in later life. Over the coming year the Foundation will also introduce Rugby Reading Champions, using sport to build reading confidence in Year 5 and 6 pupils, and run holiday rugby and multi-sport camps at each of the five partner clubs with a focus on children who would otherwise go without structured activity during the school holidays.

“I'm thoroughly looking forward to getting stuck in working for the East Lancashire Community Foundation, supporting new schools, helping students and clubs to grow the game. Seeing new people take up the sport and hopefully enjoy it as much as I do.”

— Simon Finnan, Foundation Lead

"This Foundation exists to serve people, not just the sport. Whether that's a child who's never been given the chance to play, a young person who needs someone in their corner or an older resident who's found their week has gone quiet those are the people we're here for. Simon understands that, and he understands East Lancashire. He'll make sure the benefit is felt right across all five of our communities. We're delighted to welcome him."

— John Dickinson, Chair of Trustees

Simon's appointment completes the Foundation's initial leadership team, following the launch of the charity on 24th August. The Foundation begins full delivery of its programmes from September 2026.

Schools, community groups and businesses interested in working with the Foundation can get in touch at contact@eastlancsfoundation.com or visit www.eastlancashirefoundation.co.uk