Year of Rugby, A Legacy of Giving: Celebrate National Wooden Spoon Day on 19th March

As the dust settles on the Men’s Six Nations and anticipation builds for the Women’s Six Nations, the Lions Tour, and the Women’s Rugby World Cup, there’s never been a better time to celebrate rugby’s power to unite and inspire.

Rugby isn’t just about the game—it’s about community, resilience, and making a difference. That’s exactly what Wooden Spoon, the children’s charity of rugby, has been doing since 1983. This National Wooden Spoon Day, on 19th March, we invite rugby fans and communities across the UK and Ireland to come together and honour the rich history and incredible impact of Wooden Spoon. Whether you're passing a rugby ball, fundraising, or simply spreading the word, every action counts. Let’s turn our passion for rugby into a force for good.

Get ready to join the celebration as National Wooden Spoon Day takes place on 19th March, marking the anniversary of Wooden Spoon’s founding in 1983. This special day is a chance to honour the rich history and incredible impact of Wooden Spoon, the children’s charity of rugby, dedicated to supporting children with disabilities or facing disadvantage across the UK and Ireland. Since 1983 Wooden Spoon has donated in excess of £31 million to more that 1,500 projects, heloing over 1.5 million children and young people.

Wooden Spoon’s supporters, beneficiaries, and the wider rugby community are coming together to raise awareness and funds in a fun and meaningful way. We are inviting all to get involved. Whether you choose to host a fundraising event, take part in a rugby match, wear Wooden Spoon colours, or simply spread the word on social media, every action – big or small – makes a difference!

How You Can Get Involved

There are countless ways to celebrate #WoodenSpoonDay and show your support:

•           Post on Social Media: Either using the National Wooden Spoon Day graphics or getting involved with The Pass the Ball campaign.

•           Organise a Mufti Day or Wooden Spoon Decorating Competition: A fun way for children to participate while raising funds.

•           Host a Fundraising Event: Plan a charity lunch, bake sale, or raffle to support the cause.

•           Wear Wooden Spoon Colours: Show solidarity and spread awareness by donning Wooden Spoon-themed outfits.

•           Join the ‘Pass the Ball’ Social Media Campaign: Take part in the viral movement kicking off on the 19th March.

•           Donate to Wooden Spoon: Your contributions directly support projects like the inclusive play area at Ellen Tinkham school

Recent Impact: Inclusive playground for children with learning difficulties at Ellen Tinkham school

The Ellen Tinkham School in Devon has created an early years playground - an inclusive and engaging outdoor space for children with learning difficulties and special educational needs. The school, which operates across two sites in Exeter, is committed to providing personalised learning opportunities and fostering a holistic, inclusive environment. The playground will enhance students' wellbeing and educational experiences by offering a safe and stimulating outdoor area tailored to their diverse needs. Wooden Spoon’s support aligns with its mission to improve the lives of children and young people facing disadvantage through the power of the rugby community.

https://woodenspoon.org.uk/recent-projects/ellen-tinkham-school-early-years-playground/

Sarah Webb, CEO of Wooden Spoon, encourages everyone to take part:

"National Wooden Spoon Day is a fantastic opportunity for communities to come together and make a real difference in the lives of children and young people with disabilities or facing disadvantage. Whether you're passing a rugby ball, hosting an event, or simply spreading the word, every action helps us continue our mission. Join us on 19th March and be part of something truly special."

Make Some Noise for Wooden Spoon!

With your help, we can make National Wooden Spoon Day bigger and better than ever. Don’t forget to tag us in your posts and use #WoodenSpoonDay to spread the word.

Follow us on social media:

@WoodenSpoonCharity | @charityspoon | Wooden Spoon Charity

For more information or to get involved, please visit https://woodenspoon.org.uk/national-wooden-spoon-day