Tackling blood borne viruses one Try at a time

3 November 2025

An inspiring community-led health initiative has empowered players from a south Powys rugby club to take charge of their wellbeing while challenging stigma and sparking conversations around blood borne viruses.

The Powys Health Protection Team, made up of staff from Powys County Council and Powys Teaching Health Board, joined forces with Ystradgynlais Rugby Club to host a community blood borne virus (BBV) testing evening.

The event, held at Ystradgynlais Rugby Club's clubhouse, welcomed players into a relaxed and stigma-free environment where they were offered free and confidential testing for HIV, Hepatitis B, and Hepatitis C.

Attendees were also able to speak to trained health professionals and receive information on prevention, treatment, and support services.

This initiative reflects the Powys Health Protection Team's ongoing commitment to safeguarding public health through proactive, community-led action - focusing on prevention, early intervention and meaningful engagement.

Blood borne viruses often show no symptoms for many years, meaning many people may be unaware they are infected. If left untreated, these viruses can lead to serious health complications, but with early diagnosis and modern treatments, people can live long, healthy lives and prevent onward transmission.

As part of a global commitment to eliminate new HIV transmissions, reduce stigma and improve health outcomes for people living with blood borne viruses, Powys has officially become a Fast-Track County, strengthening its dedication to prevention, early testing, and equitable access to care.  Working with the local community to trial innovative testing initiatives demonstrates that anything is achievable.

Cllr Richard Church, Powys County Council's Cabinet Member for Legal and Regulatory Services, and Chair of Fast-Track Powys Steering Group said: "This is public health at its best - accessible, community-driven, and focused on prevention.

"By teaming up with trusted local organisations like Ystradgynlais Rugby Club, we were able to connect with people who might not usually engage with traditional health services. It's a model we're keen to replicate across Powys."

Mererid Bowley, Powys Teaching Health Board's Executive Director of Public Health, said: "The initiative, is part of a wider public health campaign that aims to raise awareness of BBVs such as Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C, and HIV and encourage testing among groups who may be at risk. The rugby club's involvement highlights the importance of trusted community partnerships in tackling stigma and promoting wellbeing.

"This collaboration is a brilliant example of how sport and public health can come together to protect and empower communities. The players have shown real leadership by stepping forward to get tested and talk openly about it. Their courage to get tested sends a strong message: taking care of your health is important - not just for you, but for your family too."

Sharing their pride in supporting the initiative, Ystradgynlais Rugby Club's Martin Donnelly said: "We were delighted to welcome the Powys Heath Protection Team to our club. The nurses explained to our players the concerning rise of blood borne virus in the community.

"The players gladly took part in a confidential screening programme by means of a finger prick test. This tiny sample is used to identify and treat dormant infections before they escalate into serious health concerns.

"We're proud to have partnered with the Powys Health Protection Team on this important initiative."

The Joint Health Protection Service is now inviting sports clubs and community organisations across Powys to host similar events. These sessions are fully supported by trained staff, with all equipment and materials provided.

To express interest or find out more, contact healthprotection@powys.gov.uk