Maritime UK Solent has launched its search for a new Charity Partner for 2024, so that, in some way, they can shine a spotlight raising awareness of the charity’s work through a year-long relationship, benefitting from promotional and networking support.
Solent-based maritime-related charities are invited to apply, or to be nominated, to become Maritime UK Solent’s Charity of the Year for 2024/25.
Anne-Marie Mountifield, Chair of Maritime UK Solent, said: “We are looking to partner with a maritime-based charity in the region to showcase their services and the impact they make in the community. It is an incredible opportunity for a local charity to celebrate their staff and volunteers, boost awareness in the local area and forge new connections.
“We are excited to be searching for a Charity Partner for 2024 and look forward to receiving applications from marine-based charities or people wishing to nominate one. If you would like the opportunity to be Maritime UK Solent’s Charity Partner, please apply as soon as possible.
“We have thoroughly enjoyed working with Portsmouth Sail Training Trust (PSTT) as our current Charity Partner, as they bring the world of maritime to some of the most disadvantaged young people in our region, showing them opportunities and experiences that they might never have had.”
Ed Philips, founder and director of Portsmouth Sail Training Trust said: “We were absolutely thrilled to have been chosen to be Maritime UK Solent’s Charity Partner for 2023/24. It was a real honour for us and a fantastic opportunity to raise our profile during the year.
“Every year we work with 120 young people from across Portsmouth, enabling them to gain qualifications and develop skills which will have a positive impact on their lives and future careers.
“Our goal is that they will become confident and capable individuals who have the potential to work in the diverse maritime sector found right on their doorstep.
“As a charity partner, we have made new connections and built strong partnerships with the community and businesses. Together, we are helping young people raise their aspirations through maritime training.”
PSTT Fundraising Manager Ruth Brady added: “It has been fantastic working with Maritime UK Solent over the past year as their Charity Partner. They have supported us with our mission to raise young peoples’ aspirations by championing our work through their networks and introducing us to a variety of maritime businesses within the Solent.
“This all culminated in an inspirational Careers Day which enabled over 40 young people from Portsmouth to interact with over 20 maritime businesses. PSTT is now developing partnerships with several of these organisations, such as Lockheed Martin and Portsmouth International Port, to enable young people to develop skills and gain experiences which will help them to pursue a career in the maritime industry.
“Thank you, Maritime UK Solent, for all your support.”
The chosen charity will receive promotional support and will be invited to speak to guests at this year’s Maritime UK Solent Awards Ceremony, being held on 17 October at the Hilton Southampton Utilita Bowl.
The closing date for applications to be Maritime UK Solent’s Charity Partner is 16 July. For full details, and to apply for, or to nominate a charity, visit our Charity applications page.