Hampshire based youth sailing charity, the Tall Ships Youth Trust, have launched a crowdfunding campaign to raise £15,000 to give 24 people aged 12-25, who are either NHS workers or their children, a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to take part in a week’s sailing adventure. Everyone who makes a donation – from £5 to £5,000 – will have the opportunity to nominate an NHS worker for the voyage.

During the lockdown there have been some remarkable stories of the selfless work of the NHS, and the sacrifices and risks their families have had to take. Now, you can say ‘thank you’ and give back to those who have been caring for our home county throughout the Covid-19 pandemic.

The plan is to set sail on board one of the Trust’s iconic 72ft Challenger racing yachts. The groups will be split across two yachts according to their age; 12-15 and 16-25, and the voyage will set sail on Monday 5th April 2021 exploring the south coast for four nights.

The youth voyages are unforgettable experiences suitable for any ability – no experience necessary. They are truly exhilarating adventures.

As well as giving a life-changing experience to a deserving young person, there are a variety of rewards ranging from £10 to £5,000 on offer for anyone who donates to the campaign including:
• £35: A limited edition Tall Ships Youth Trust t-shirt plus your name featured on our website
• £100: A limited edition Tall Ships Youth Trust hoodie, coffee mug plus a shout out on Twitter
• £5,000: Become the official voyage sponsor. You could even have your logo on the side of the boat!
• And much more…

Dr Lizzie Butler-Meadows works in the emergency department at Queen Alexander Hospital. She has sailed with the Tall Ships Youth Trust for on over 12 voyages, and upon hearing about the project said: “I first sailed with Tall Ships as an unconfident 16-year-old. Now, I look back and credit that experience with giving me the determination to get into medical school and become a doctor in the NHS.

“I spent a week seriously ill in QA hospital last month and am beyond grateful for the care I have received from my colleagues. I genuinely believe that it is down to all the staff – not just the doctors and nurses – that make the NHS what it is. It is humbling to see the public get behind us all, and I hope everyone now sees how lucky we are with the hospitals and GPs we have in the South.”

Tall Ships Youth Trust CEO, Richard Leaman-Grey said: “I am delighted to be playing a small part in giving back to those who have worked so hard for us over the last six months.

What’s more, as well as supporting NHS families in the local community, this project will help us bring in necessary funds to carry out our vital youth development work, which will be even more needed once this pandemic subsides. Our ambition is to transform many more young lives and we can’t do this without you, our supporters – thank you.”

For more information about the campaign and how you can get involved go to www.crowdfunder.co.uk/nhs-voyage-of-thanks.