Non-affiliated rugby team insurance

Children having rugby team talk

How are non-affiliated teams covered?

If you’re a non-affiliated team playing a charity match or a rugby sevens match, standard RFU insurance won’t apply. So what happens if there’s an accident on the pitch?

We’ve got the solutions. Rugby teams that aren’t part of an RFU affiliated club are covered by RFU-arranged personal accident insurance.  

However, the match or tournament has to be properly refereed and organised, in line with RFU Rules and Regulations and the World Rugby Laws of the Game. 

What does personal accident insurance cover?

Personal accident insurance covers players who get a permanent, serious disability, or who die while taking part in rugby. For example, losing use of a limb or permanent loss of hearing. It also includes cover for catastrophic traumatic brain and spinal injury.

Accidents when travelling to and from the ground or to and from matches, as well as during training and competitive play, are covered. On a valid claim, the insurance pays out a lump sum to the player. The amount depends on the type and severity of the injury.

Learn more about personal accident insurance.

What’s not covered?

If you’re a non-affiliated team, personal accident insurance is the only RFU-arranged cover you automatically have.  

The RFU does not provide you with:

  • Public liability insurance, or any other liability insurance provided to its affiliated clubs. This is unless it’s been agreed in writing by the RFU Legal & Governance department, or your team is connected to a club or constituent body.
  • Loss of earnings and minor, temporary injuries of team members, like a broken limb or strain. To protect these risks, players can take out their own personal protection insurance.
  • Travel insurance if you’re taking the game on tour. You will need tour travel insurance to cover medical emergencies abroad, lost luggage, cancellation and more.  

Interested in RFU affiliation? If you'd like to learn how your club can become affiliated to the RFU or host an RFU-approved event, you can message their Club Support Centre.

If you’re not sure if your club is affiliated, check the RFU club directory.  

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We recognise that the current economic conditions are putting pressure on many households and businesses. At Howden, we are committed to finding ways to assist our customers who may require additional support during these times.

If you’re currently facing financial difficulty, please speak to us about your insurance policies by:-

-contacting your Howden Service Team; 
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