South Wales Police men’s rugby team has received a significant financial boost as it prepares to compete at the World Police and Fire Games.
A £10,000 donation from the South Wales Police Federation Group Insurance Scheme (GIS) will go directly towards the cost of the team’s trip to Perth, Australia, in March 2027, helping to make the opportunity more accessible for players.
Director of rugby, former PC Gareth ‘Bish’ Bishop, welcomed the contribution and highlighted the impact it will have on the squad.
He said: “We’re extremely grateful to the Group Insurance Scheme for their support. It’s an incredibly generous donation and will make a real difference to the players.
“Support like this helps ease the financial burden and allows more of the team to take part in what is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.”
The World Police and Fire Games, held every two years, is one of the largest multi-sport events globally outside of the Olympics, bringing together around 8,000 competitors from more than 80 countries, including police officers, firefighters and other emergency service personnel.
Gareth, who has been involved with the team for nearly three decades, said the tournament offers far more than just rugby.
He said: “Tours like this are about more than the game. They’re about building friendships, sharing experiences, and learning from colleagues across the world.
Experience of a lifetime
“The connections you make last a lifetime, and those experiences can also benefit officers in their day-to-day roles back home.”
The overall cost of the tour is expected to be around £120,000, with further fundraising planned throughout the year- including a proposed golf day – to ensure all players have the chance to take part.
The South Wales Police Federation Group Insurance Scheme provides comprehensive protection tailored specifically to the needs and risks faced by police officers, police staff, and their families.
Group Insurance Scheme
Available to Federation members for a monthly subscription, the scheme offers a wide range of benefits including life insurance, personal accident cover, assault cover, sick pay insurance, legal expenses insurance, travel insurance, motor breakdown cover, healthcare benefits, and access to mental and emotional counselling support.
New officers can opt into the scheme free of charge during their first 52 weeks of service.
Federation members can apply to join by completing a form online or through the Federation office.
Payments are typically made via salary or pension deduction.
To find out more about the benefits or to apply, visit the Group Insurance Scheme section of the South Wales Police Federation website.