TALL SHIPS YOUTH TRUST
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Mission Statement
The Tall Ships Youth Trust's mission is to enable young people to fulfil their life potential through experiences at sea and by breaking down the barriers they face in society.
About This Cause
About Tall Ships Youth Trust Tall Ships Youth Trust (TSYT) is a youth development outdoor learning charity which has been improving the skills and life chances of young people, particularly those facing disadvantages, since 1956. Out on the ocean TSYT empowers young people to realise their full potential, supporting them on their journey to adulthood and for some, into careers in the maritime sector and the blue economy. We operate nationally, providing voyages all year round, offering young people the chance to develop life skills, build self-esteem, improve employability, embrace a healthier more active lifestyle and get involved in volunteering. Last year, we gave over 1,200 young people a life-changing experience (88% of them told us so). 82% of these young people were disadvantaged or disabled - facing various challenges such as learning difficulties, hearing/visual impairment, behavioural, emotional or social difficulties and communication problems. We know from experience that young people often feel excluded and lack the self-esteem and confidence to reach their potential whether at home or in their local communities. After a week at sea with us, their self-worth and life chances have literally been transformed. We work in partnership with other youth organisations, (e.g. schools, youth groups and children’s services), who refer their young people to us – this ensures that our residentials form part of a longer-term development plan for each young person. Tall Ships Youth Trust Voyages The young people we work with often feel marginalised and disengaged from society, with low motivation and low self-worth. Our voyages provide them with a new challenge, along with the support and respect, to be able to demonstrate their true capabilities. Voyages fully involve young people, getting them to focus on what they can do as opposed to what they can’t do, which creates opportunities for success, builds self-esteem and helps young people to realise their full potential. They also offer a safe but challenging environment to build resilience, encourage improvements in teamwork and social skills. The young people will be divided into Watches (team) and will lead all activities on board – they literally run the vessel 24/7. Each voyage begins with a detailed safety briefing so that the young people are aware of how to keep themselves, and others, safe at sea. They also take part in drills such as ‘Man Overboard’ so they know what to do in an emergency. Each day begins with planning with the Captain / Skipper – the vessel is then prepared and sets sail to its next destination. Tasks include setting and stowing sails, helming, rope work, navigation, meteorology, repairing and maintaining equipment, preparing meals and snacks and cleaning. All tasks require the young people to communicate effectively with each other and work as a team; many tasks often have to be completed quickly – for example tacking or gybing due to a change in wind direction. Support will be provided as needed by professional crew and TSYT volunteers. In the evening there will be debrief sessions where the young people can discuss how they feel the day has gone. Outcomes Our voyages encourage improvements in teamwork and social skills as well as promoting life-long learning. Young people are respected and valued for their individual contributions, providing a positive learning experience. The beneficial outcomes of TSYT voyages are measured and significant in helping young people to reach their potential:- • 95% said they now have better team working skills • 91% believed it had improved their communication skills • 89% reported an increase in confidence and self-esteem • 88% felt it had improved their problem solving skills • 93% said they are now able to manage their feelings better • 99% told us that they enjoyed their voyage and had fun! Around 20% of the young people taking part also receive a recommendation to return to train and sail again as a member of the volunteer crew, in order to support and encourage other young people. This also offers them the chance to work towards nationally accredited maritime qualifications which can lead onto a career at sea. Monitoring and Evaluation TSYT has rigorous systems in place to monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of its work with young people via a series of self-reporting surveys. Each young person also receives an end-of-voyage crew report, focusing on their positive achievements, team work, effort and communication. They write daily blogs which give a running commentary on their experiences – these are made available to read on our website (tallships.org). Parental questionnaires and third-party feedback forms will be reviewed to determine changes in behaviour and attitude. We are passionate about the impact our voyages have on young people and believe that all young people should have the opportunity to participate, regardless of their background. Therefore, we are continuously fundraising in order to provide much-needed bursaries so that we can reach and support as many young people as possible.