The UK’s oldest and largest youth development sail training charity has launched its ‘Changing Young Lives at Sea’ campaign, which aims to raise more than £22,000 in just one week.

Portsmouth-based Tall Ships Youth Trust (TSYT) is once again taking part in The Big Give match-funding Christmas Challenge, which runs from midday today (29 November) until midday next Tuesday (6 December).

The youth charity is launching this year’s campaign with a celebrity video appeal from historian and TV presenter, Dan Snow.

Dan Snow has been one of TSYT’s most loyal supporters ever since he sailed onboard one of the trust’s previous Schooners, Malcolm Miller, in the late nineties, an experience which he says changed his life.

Dan Snow, said: “We’re thrilled to be taking part in the Big Give’s Christmas Challenge again this year to raise vital funds in support of our life-changing youth development work. 

“Every donation made towards this campaign via the Big Give platform during the live week will be doubled, giving twice as many young people the chance to turn their lives around on one of our transformational voyages.” 

Young people experiencing disadvantage simply do not have the same chances or opportunities in life as their peers, and the current cost-of-living crisis is making the situation worse. Many are worried about their future prospects and their wellbeing is of huge concern.

Bethany (21), who sailed with TSYT in October, said: “The voyage has been the highlight of my year by far because I’ve had a lot of hardship recently. I come from a background where I thought I’d never have an opportunity like this.

“After the voyage I’m feeling a lot more confident about life in general and I’m much happier than I was at the start of the week.”

Supporters can contribute to the campaign via The Big Give platform. Donations received during the live week will be matched up to TSYT’s target of £11,100, with thanks to funding pledges received from generous individuals and The Reed Educational Trust. This means that the charity has the potential to raise more than £22,200 overall.

TSYT CEO, Alastair Floyd, said: “Our voyages equip young people with increased self-esteem, resilience and life skills, which they can take back to their communities and thrive.

“With the help of our generous supporters, we aim to reach our doubled target of £22,200 in just seven days. Please donate to our campaign and help us to change even more young lives at sea.”

One donation. Twice the impact!