BBC Sport spoke to four players involved in the World Cup and one who was in the wider Scotland training squad. Contributors wished to remain anonymous out of fear of jeopardising their future in the sport.
Players said their contracts were due for renewal in June 2025, two months before the World Cup began in August, and that they had asked for 12-month deals beyond that to ensure job security and so they could focus on their performances at the tournament.
However, according to those contacted, while some players in Scotland’s 32-player World Cup squad were given 12-month contracts in May 2025, a quarter were told their deals would end in October, a decision one player described as a “big shock”.
At the time, contracts ranged from £18,000 to £27,000 and in most cases were the player’s main source of income. Those playing in the Premiership could also earn up to about £10,000 from their club contracts.
The players who spoke to BBC Sport said that having to compete at the World Cup knowing their jobs and international careers were potentially about to come to an end put them under huge mental strain.
They also said they were not given the proper support by Scottish Rugby to cope with the situation.
Some of those who were told they would lose their funding after October had been part of the Scotland team for many years and were regularly starting international matches.
One said that “despite clear signs” that some were suffering with the news, “no transitional help” was offered by Scottish Rugby.
Another said she spent downtime between World Cup matches searching for a job.
“We are saddened and concerned to hear of some Scotland Women players who have been challenged by their mental health over recent months,” Scottish Rugby said.
“We recognised the pressures the player group might face last year and worked to ensure expert support was available to them all as individuals, regardless of their circumstances.
“If any of the players feel they would like to reconnect to the mental health and career services that were available we are happy to make the necessary arrangements.”
In 2025 Scottish Rugby said it would increase the number of contracts available to players from 32 to 35 for the 2025-26 season.
One player said “everybody understands contracts aren’t going to be guaranteed every year”, before questioning why Scottish Rugby did not provide access to career advisors or psychologists for those affected.
Another added: “It’s not about contracts. It’s not about resources. It’s literally about treating people like human beings.”
Scottish Rugby’s response stated that psychological support was embedded in Scotland camps and available to all players regardless of contract status.
It said a player development manager supported players on off-field matters, including employment, and that exit meetings were held at the end of contracts to identify any potential physical or psychological support that may be needed.
