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Message 2023/24SOCIAL IMPACTREPORT

The Saracens Foundation is the charitable arm of Saracens Rugby Club. Our vision is to inspire our community through the values of sport, physical activity and social opportunities, using sport as a catalyst for positive change. This year, we delivered 35 projects within our local community helping to positively improve our beneficiary’s education and employment prospects as well as their physical, mental and social health.22

It is fantastic to have completed another great year for the Foundation and as the head of this incredible organisation. I am really excited to share with you the remarkable strides that we will be demonstrating in this report. It is often challenging to sum up what we do and why we do it in a few words as our work is so varied, however, our mission has always remained the same – to harness the power of sport to achieve a tangible health, educational or employment outcome for those who are most at need in our communities.This year hasn’t been without its challenges; however, I could not be prouder of the work the team has achieved. Their dedication, passion and hard work has been the driving force behind our success. I would like to extend my gratitude to everyone who has supported the Saracens Foundation this year. Without your generosity we simply could not continue to build stronger communities and change so many lives. Thank you for being a part of the Saracens Foundation!Kindest regards,Rich Symonds Head of Foundation As Chairman of the Saracens Foundation, I’m delighted to be penning the introduction to the 2024 Social Impact Report. My involvement with the club goes back to the days we played in Enfield, 28 years ago and I have been part of the Foundation’s trustee team for over 12 years. The last couple of years have seen a real ‘gear‘ change in the Foundation. The charity sector in general has found it hard going, with a general tightening of belts, both by the consumer and the business community. The Foundation has risen to the challenge, by raising more funding, reaching out to more people who need us and growing awareness. This year we developed the ambassador programme with all Saracens playing professionals, with the result being a great take up and success. The highlight being Premiership Rugby acknowledging for a second year running a Saracens senior player’s outstanding work within the local community. Last year we were proud of Sean Mainland’s achievement, and this was capitalised by Andy Christie receiving the accolade again this May.It would be wrong of me not to acknowledge our supporters; their generosity is outstanding and please do not ever underestimate what they do in playing their part in the success of your Foundation. Thank you on behalf of the trustees and the whole Saracens Foundation team. Best Wishes and again many thanks to you all. David Lebond Foundation Chairman33

I have been involved with the Saracens Foundation as a volunteer for some years and during that time the impact that the Foundation has had on the local community has been amazing. The improvement in the participants of the projects that I have supported is something to behold. Seeing individuals’ confidence grow and having the ability to express themselves in a caring environment and just be themselves is so rewarding. Chris Durward Akhurst“4

our funders5

StoneX is delighted to have been the Principal Partner of the Saracens Foundation over the last few years, supporting their vital work in the local community. Seeing first-hand the impact that the Foundation has on its participants and the growth it achieves every year makes us extremely proud to be a part of their journey.The Foundation works with the breadth of the community, proving that sport has the power to transform lives regardless of circumstance, health, age, or wealth and we look forward to continuing our partnership in the future and supporting the amazing work they do.Leah Manning Vice President, Real Estate and Corporate Services, Stone X“6

Helping to drive positive and lasting social impact by working with partners is a cornerstone of our communities strategy. Our collaboration with Saracens Foundation on Empower Her to inspire and develop the next generation of future female leaders through sport is now in its fourth year and has had a profound impact on its participants, including both the mentors and mentees. The expertise and commitment of the Foundation team, coupled with their incredible network and a mandate to be a catalyst for positive change, makes them an exceptional partner. John Callender, Chairman, Shawbrook Group plc “7

The work done by Saracens Foundation is centered around passion, commitment and, perhaps most importantly, kindness. Whether it be with the elderly, excluded or disabled, those in prison or those just out of shape, Saracens Foundation exists to see the people they support thrive. As an organisation aligned to the UN Sustainable Development Goals, we at BNP Paribas believe that it will take all of us – regardless of our challenges – to build a just and sustainable future. It’s a pleasure to work with Saracens Foundation, an organisation whose work we know firsthand is helping make that a reality.Tara Foy Senior CSR Manager, BNP Paribas “8

Our partnership with the Saracens Foundation on the ‘Sporting Roots’ project is particularly meaningful to us as it supports refugees and asylum seekers by facilitating their integration into local communities and enables them to enjoy the many health benefits sports activities can create. By continuing to fund ‘Sporting Roots’, we aim to provide our residents with a sense of belonging, purpose and enhanced mental health.The partnership with the Saracens Foundation not only positively impacts the lives of those we support but also brings a profound sense of pride and fulfilment to me and everybody here at SBHL. Owais Khan Head of Community Engagement & Customer Relations, SBHL “9

Alan Day Motor Group have been involved with the Foundation for the last 10 years. I have seen life changing improvements in all the participants, I have also seen the impact it has had with their parents. I believe the programme has given them skills that they can use in everyday life which is making a huge difference to them and their families. Paul Tanner Managing Director, Alan Day Motor Group “10

OUR YEAR IN NUMBERS22,7176,438£1.5 MPRIMARY IMPACTSHOURS OF ENGAGEMENTMILLION SPENT ON OUR LOCAL COMMUNITY11

12make your markProject breakthrough the showdown 4

REDUCING ReOFFENDINGSCHOOL TO PRISON TUBE LINESENT OUT OF CLASSTEMPORARYEXCLUSIONPERMANENTEXCLUSIONPUPIL REFERRAL UNITYOUNGOFFENDER UNITDETENTIONgo forward project Breakthrough get onsideunderstandingsupportsuccessempathyguidanceskillssupportsuccesssupportsuccessISOLATIONPRISONREOFFENDING1 IN 6 PEOPLE IN THE UK HAVE A CRIMINAL RECORD.IT COSTS £50,000 TO HOLD A PRISONER FOR ONE YEAR IN A PUBLIC SECTOR UK PRISON.ONLY 17% OF PRISON LEAVERS MANAGE TO GET A JOB WITHIN 12 MONTHS OF RELEASE.THE NATIONAL REOFFENDING RATE IS 48% VS 15% FOR GET ONSIDE GRADUATES IN A PUBLIC SECTOR UK PRISON.1313

GO forwardTo use sport and mentoring to supprt young people at risk of permanent exclusion from mainstream education settings.“Excluded 12-year-olds are 4 times more likely to enter the criminal justice system as adults.”“Over 260,000 suspensions in spring term 2023 – A new termly record level. Pupils who experience suspension or exclusion are disproportionately from disadvantaged backgrounds.”PARTICIPANTS HOURS OF MENTORING GO FORWARD SESSIONS“Go Forward is my safe space.” – Student“I wouldn’t be coming to school if Go Forward wasn’t here, I’d be lost without it.” – Student “If you weren’t here working with me, I’d be isolated every day and probably expelled from school.” – Student“I can’t believe I haven’t had a detention in months. I feel like a new person compared to the start of the year.” – Student“870 2189 76114

GET onsideGet Onside is our eight-week prison reform project. The aim is to tackle the rate of reoffending in and around London by offering life skills and personal development sessions reinforced by the values of rugby.72 PARTICIPANTS ACROSS 4 COHORTS MCAA SCORES REDUCED BY 41% OVER 100 VISITORS ENTERED THE PRISONS TO SUPPORT THE PROJECT EACH PARTICIPANT OFFERED THE OPPORTUNITY OF A 1:1 MENTOR“Overall, the course was fantastic. I was lost before the course with no direction of where to go as I had lost everything. But now this course has put myself and my life back together. Thank you, Saracens”. “This course has helped me a lot. I’ve been in prison for my second time, and I’ve never had this kind of help or connections. To be helped in this way is a great help as I was offered nothing like this during my last sentence. To have an organisation take time to help us in this way has really changed my view on life. Thanks so much.”“I would like to thank the Saracens Foundation for the last eight weeks. My personal life has been a bit crazy lately and this course has helped me a lot to keep my mind off things. No matter what the score is in the match - win or lose - I won’t forget the things you guys have done. Rugby has helped me throughout my life, now and when I was younger, when I do get released if there is anything I can do to help with the course please don’t hesitate to ask”.“what our participants said15

60-7940-59Love to fitness Love to dance Love to balance80+AGEAGEAGEOLDER ADULTS HEALTH DEclinesaracens foundation projectsPhysical function may decline further, impacting daily activities. Chronic conditions like arthritis, diabetes, and hypertension become more pronounced.Mental health, social engagement, and cognitive activities require extra effort. Many people may start experiencing minor health issues. Common health concerns include weight gain, blood pressure, cholesterol, and stress. Maintaining social connections and mental well-being becomes more challenging. Regular exercise helps prevent both physical and cognitive decline, slowing down the aging process. Staying fit is linked to a longer lifespan, reducing the effects of conditions like cancer, cardiovascular diseases, type 2 diabetes, and vascular aging.Pursuing higher levels of physical activity is associated with lower depressive symptoms, anxiety and stress. Research shows that 1-2 hours of dancing per week can improve cognitive skills. Memorising steps and focusing during dance contribute to increased brain activity. Low-impact cardio exercise benefits heart health and pulmonary function. Dancing increases bone mass, promoting stronger bones. Dancing and listening to music are excellent social activities. Whether in structured classes or at parties, older adults can meet others with similar interests in a fun, non-competitive environment. Regular movement helps maintain joint flexibility, strength, and mobility reducing the risk of falls due to frailty and increases independence. Music stimulates memory recall and can enhance mood and emotional well-being and learning new movements or following rhythmic patterns engages the brain. Participants engage with others during the classes, fostering social connections providing a sense of community and support among residents. Advances in medicine have increased life expectancy, but aging-related issues persist. Mobility and independence can be significantly compromised. Preventing falls, nutrition, and maintaining mental agility can become difficult.Chronic diseases such as heart disease, dementia, and cancer become eve more prevalent. 16

LOVe TO DANCEHELENA SAID, ‘The class saved my life’.Helena attends a Love to Dance class in Letchworth and has been attending since 2020. Unfortunately, Helena’s husband passed away a few years ago and since then she has been struggling with her mental health. She was experiencing loneliness and depression, which resulted in her wanting to take her own life. Helena disliked Mondays as she would spend all weekend alone and then always felt Monday was not a day to look forward to. Until one day when she found Love to Dance in Letchworth which takes place on a Monday morning. Helena now attends the class weekly and often meets up with other participants outside of the class for a coffee and a catch up. 17CASE STUDY – HELENA

Increased opportunities for getting girls active through regular curricular sessions alongside rugby festivals to support making rugby a sport for life.Lack of females in leaderships roles in sporting organisations.Providing the opportunity for girls who are looking to pursue careers in sport to get on the sport network ladder earlier to help them excel in their career. Young women and girls are less active than boys. Only 8% meet the CMO advice of activity. Increased resilience through the sport of rugby to keep confidence in young women. Females working within the sporting industry viewing the industry not gender equal.Providing work experience in sport industry directly to enhance networking opportunities and develop key skills from directly working within the sports industry.Girls’ motivation, confidence and enjoyment of sport reduces during their teenage years.Provision of female coaches and opportunities to be inspired by players through Inspire Her programme creates role models for young women.In the sports industry, women still face challenges such as gender bias and lack of representation. By having the opportunity to accelerate their industry knowledge through work experience and mentorships, Empower Her will produce groups of confident and highly skilled individuals who are looking to continue pushing for gender equality in the professional sport industry.Lack of female role models is a key barrier to participation in women & girls’ sport. Providing female only sessions to empower and increase confidence and overcome that barrier. Perceptions of women having disadvantage to break into the sporting industry. The knowledge and skills gained through the programme will not only help the young women to become successful in job applications but also aid their performance whilst working. Barriers to girls’ participation is varied but found that 18% feel it is because they don’t like taking part with boys. Providing opportunities in schools to engage in rugby and unlock all the physical and social wellbeing benefits it brings.54% of girls playing age grade rugby stated lack of playing opportunities in school as a barrier that made it harder to participate in rugby.PARTiCIPATION CAREER & LEADERSHiPINSPIRE HER EMPOWER HERBarriers for Women & Girls in Sport Barriers for Women & Girls in Sport Saracens Solutions for Women & Girls in Sport Saracens Solutions for Women & Girls in Sport 18

inspire herthis year’s statisticsThis year, we launched a women and girls participation programme funded by Maddy’s Mark. Maddy’s Mark is a charity set up in remembrance of Maddy Lawrence who was a keen Rugby player and her family has used the spirit of Rugby to set up a charity in her name. The aim of the organisation is to promote positive mental health for young girls through playing Rugby to develop their self-esteem, resilience, and team spirit in honour of Maddy. Inspire Her works with secondary schools across Hertfordshire to increase girls’ participation in rugby from ages 11-16. Through rugby, Inspire Her aims to promote inclusivity, teamwork and the multitude of physical and mental health benefits sport can bring but most of all the enjoyment that rugby can bring to the young women’s lives. PARTICIPANTSHOURS OF FESTIVALSSCHOOLS ENGAGED42461019

empower herEmpower Her supports during a crucial age where participants can explore multiple opportunities relating to their professional career aspirations. “Across the roles of CEO, Chair and Performance Director, just 17% were women. Further to this, a Sporting Insights study of women working within sporting industries stated that only 1% would refer to it as a gender equal environment.’ EMPOWER HER GRADUATESHOURS OF WORK EXPERIENCE UNDERTAKENSECTORS OF SPORTS INDUSTRY SHOWCASED“Empower Her is led by women for women!” “Three words I’d use to describe Empower Her are exciting, innovative and inspiring!” “I am meeting so many amazing women working in the sports industry who are sharing their experiences and knowledge. I am always overwhelmed by the support and encouragement we all gain from each other!”“124760+20

empowerherEloise Bladon is 17 years old and was invited back to take part in Empower Her 23/24 from a part time participation during the 22/23 Cohort. Eloise is keen to move into Sports Photography through previous amateur experience. From borrowing her school’s camera to gaining the opportunity to work a Saracens Women’s Fixture with a professional sports photographer, Eloise’s attitude of never saying no to an opportunity has driven her progress within Empower Her. CASE STUDY – eloiseBefore taking part in Empower Her, Eloise had a self-professed “lack of confidence and fear of being called on in class”. However, by pushing herself out of her comfort zone and taking opportunities that might make her uncomfortable, it has allowed Eloise to thrive within Empower Her. Through PWR half-time interviews, to Media Masterclasses held by City Football Leadership Institute, Eloise has taken every opportunity that has come her way this year and is the epitome of Empower Her.21

disabilityThe Saracens Foundation has always challenged itself to meet the needs of the most vulnerable of participants. Our work with people with disabilities is clear evidence of this. There are 12.2 million disabled people in England. Disabled adults are almost twice as likely to be physically inactive compared to non-disabled people (42.4% vs 22.6%). Yet, four in five disabled people want to be more active. THIS YEAR, OUR DISABILITY PROJECTS HELPED DISABLED PEOPLE BECOME MORE PHYSICALLY ACTIVE.711 22

SARRIES RFC“THERE WEREN’T MANY OPPORTUNITIES FOR ME IN HIGH SCHOOL, AND THE ONLY OPPORTUNITY WAS SARRIES RFC. I JUST LOVE DOING IT, BECAUSE IT MAKES ME A BETTER PERSON, INSIDE AND OUT.”“WE LOVE OUR LIVES, AND WE ENJOY WHAT WE DO SO THAT’S WHY I AM HERE”CASE STUDY – alex bugaAlex has Down Syndrome and has been a member of Sarries RFC for over 7 years.During this time Alex has gone from strength to strength and is now a core member of the group, taking on more of a leading role for those that need assistance. Since being a part of Sarries RFC, Alex’s confidence and ability has developed week to week. “I am just like everyone else, I am with Down Syndrome, and that makes it so special.”From joining our new full contact group, to delivering the matchday ball at Showdown 4 in front of 60,000 fans. Alex continues to prove that his disability does not define him and strives every day to achieve new accomplishments.23

sporting rootsIt is estimated that there are currently 15,000 refugees temporarily housed in London, with approximately 2,000 housed in the Barnet and Brent area alone. (UK Government, 2023)Sporting Roots provides sport and physical activity to the refugee community, helping to improve their physical and mental well-being. Refugees housed in hotels have less than £9 a week to live off and can spend up to 20 hours a day in a shared room.The Sporting Roots project has engaged with over 450 participants since its creation in 2023.The age of the participants has spanned from 3–64 with representation from over 90 different national identities.24

sportingroots“Playing football is a good escape from all of the things inside my head. SOMETIMES I JUST LIKE TO RUN AROUND AND SCORE GOALS WITH NEW FRIENDS LIKE I AM A CHILD AGAIN”.Lorans is a 33-year-old from Syria who has been in UK hotels for the past 3 years.Since starting Sporting Roots, Lorans has attended over 20 of the football sessions run at StoneX Stadium, building new social circles, and has improved his mental health. “I did not play football before, only cricket, but Lorans helped me to come to football and become more confident, he helped me have fun.” – Shokat, participantCASE STUDY – lorans“I know Lorans is always desperate to play football, he sits in reception and talks about Messi, Ronaldo, all these guys, and whenever he comes back from football he always has a big smile.” – Samiya, Hotel Staff“25

SARACENS PLAYERambassador programme Andy Onyeama-ChristieAndy has always been an engaged member of the playing squad, who will always make time for the Foundation. Over the last year he has transformed his more sporadic support into becoming an ambassador of our Sporting Roots project. “This year Andy has engaged in 5 sessions, supported us on 3 occasions in aiding us to get corporate support to run the project and has also been an ever-present member of the steering committee, dedicating his time and knowledge to ensure the project is operating at the highest possible level.” – Rich Symonds, Head of Foundation.“Hearing their stories around what they’ve been through and what they’re experiencing currently, it’s so refreshing to see them get the opportunity to just have fun. The situation that these guys are living in, obviously would take a toll on anybody so having the opportunity to just run around, play football, have fun, create new relationships, new bonds, I know that will impact massively on them.” – Andy Onyeama-Christie, Saracens & Scotland Player.“2626

sporting roots27love to balanceinspire her

young people participation“OUR DATA SHOWS THAT 47% OF CHILDREN AND YOUNG PEOPLE (3.5 MILLION) ARE MEETING THE CHIEF MEDICAL OFFICER’S GUIDELINES OF TAKING PART IN SPORT AND PHYSICAL ACTIVITY FOR AN AVERAGE OF 60 MINUTES OR MORE EVERY DAY. MEANWHILE, 30.2% (2.2M) DOFEWER THAN AN AVERAGE OF 30 MINUTES A DAY.”Sport England,Active Lives Survey 2022-23The Saracens Foundation run a number of projects designed specifically to tackle the low physical activity rate of young people. These projects utilise a variety of sports including rugby, dance and multi-sport sessions to engage young people and increase their regular levels of sport and physical activity.28

SARRIES IN MY SCHOOL186537159798%85%93%UNIQUE ATTENDEES NUMBER OF SCHOOLS ENGAGEDTOTAL HOURS DELIVERED FEEL HAPPIER WHEN EXERCISINGFEEL VERY CONFIDENT WHEN PARTAKING IN SPORTOF SIMS KIDS ARE MEETING THE CHIEF MEDICAL OFFICER’S GUIDELINES OF TAKING PART IN SPORT AND PHYSICAL ACTIVITY FOR AN AVERAGE OF 60 MINUTES OR MORE EVERY DAY.29

rugby 4 lifeRugby 4 Life provides primary school aged children with a positive introduction to rugby as well as a pathway to participation through their local grassroots club.FESTIVALSUNIQUE ATTENDEESSPORTS LEADERS“I was really nervous before the festival as I had never played tag rugby before. The Sports Leaders made the day fun even though the weather was terrible. I got better after each match and even scored the winning try in the final game! All I had to remember is ‘Pizza and Pancake’ for knowing where to stand and ‘Run Forwards, Pass Back and Stay on the Pitch’ when I had the ball. Really fun day and can’t wait to play again next year!”– Sophie – Havering Festival“23728576730

SARACENS CHEER & DANCEThe Women’s Sport Foundation suggests by age 14, girls are dropping out of sport at two times the rate of boys, with 60% of girls not meeting recommended exercise guidelines.Over the last year, not only has Saracens Cheer & Dance helped to improve the physical activity levels of these young girls, but also improved their confidence and mental health. Over 85% of participants reference an increase in confidence with 92% saying that their mental health has improved as a result of attending Saracens Cheer & Dance.THE SARACENS CHEER & DANCE PROJECT HAS OVER PARTICIPANTS ATTENDING WEEKLY IN A SAFE, INNOVATIVE AND INCLUSIVE ENVIRONMENT.7031

DANCE MASS EVENTS2024FEBRUARYMARCHSAT 23 MAR SAT 25 MAYWOMEN’S LAST HOME GAME SHOWDOWN 4@TOTTENHAM HOTSPUR STADIUMTHE DUELSAT 10 FEBMAY32

SARACENS FOUNDATION OUR VOLUNTEERS: PANOSIt’s a privilege to be able to contribute to the work the Foundation does. From a personal point of view, the feeling of mental well-being and happiness I get from being involved is immense and I leave every session with a big smile on my face. Seeing the positive effect the Foundation has on the lives of the participants is great, and it has been a privilege to see how much they have developed and grown over the years. Overall, being a part of a project like this, and the sense of family and camaraderie between the participants, staff, volunteers and parents is probably the most rewarding aspect.At the Saracens Foundation, our volunteers allow us to deepen the impact for our beneficiaries adding valuable skills, experience and knowledge to our projects. Panos’ story is one of genuine passion and desire to improve the lives of young people with disabilities through the power of sport. Panos has volunteered with the Foundation since 2015. In that time, he has been a consistent presence at our Monday Night Disability Hub.“33

Foundation fundraisingTHE SARACENS FOUNDATION FUNDRAISES ALL THE INCOME NEEDED TO DELIVER THE PROJECTS IN THE COMMUNITY AND HAS HAD A FANTASTIC YEAR OF EVENTS!203 22 2£60k12K 4K+£10k £36kGUESTSACROSS ROYAL PARKS HALF MARATHON AND LONDON LANDMARKS HALF MARATHON.BY INDIVIDUAL FUNDRAISERS RUNNING THE PARIS MARATHON AND CYCLING COAST TO COAST.TEAMS TAKE OVER DAYSsaracens charity dinnerchallenge eventssaracens charity golf dayfoundation take over daysRAISEDRAISED RAISEDRAISED RAISED34

There are lots of ways to support the Foundation! Patronage is our regular donation scheme, where your support throughout the year helps us to continue our work in the community. Fancy doing your own challenge event this year? Why not do it for the Saracens Foundation? Your fundraising would make a legitimate difference to the local community, especially supporting our unfunded or underfunded projects.For more information about becoming a patron or doing a challenge event for the Foundation, please visit our website www.saracenssportfoundation.org or email foundationinfo@saracens.net. SUPPORT US35

Saracenssportfoundation.orgcharity number 1079316