One of the UK’s largest youth development and outdoor learning charities, Tall Ships Youth Trust (TSYT) has announced its participation in the Big Give’s match-funding Christmas Challenge for the fifth consecutive year.

The Portsmouth-based charity’s ‘helping young people create better outcomes’ campaign, supported by The Reed Educational Trust aims to raise more than £22,000 in just one week. This year, the Big Give’s Christmas Challenge, which is the UK’s largest match-funding campaign will run from midday on Tuesday 28 November until midday on Tuesday 5 December.

The youth charity is launching this year’s campaign with a celebrity video appeal from historian and TV presenter, Dan Snow, who is one of TSYT’s most loyal supporters. As a teenager, Dan Snow sailed on board one of TSYT’s previous schooner vessels, Malcolm Miller, and has been a supporter of the charity ever since.

Dan Snow says: “I’m really passionate about the work that TSYT does to support the life chances of so many young people.

 “Every donation made via the Big Give platform will be doubled, giving twice as many young people the chance to develop the skills and the self-esteem needed to change their lives on a transformational voyage. One donation. Twice the impact.”

Facing financial difficulties can be a huge barrier to the positive mental health and wellbeing of young people. These young people more often lack opportunities and life chances in comparison to their peers, and the ongoing cost-of-living crisis is exacerbating the situation.

On top of this, many of TSYT’s beneficiaries are facing other challenges including learning, mental or physical disabilities, behavioural or social difficulties and caring responsibilities. These issues can have anegative impact on their confidence, self-worth, and ability to realise their true potential. Many of them are feeling anxious about their future career prospects and their overall wellbeing is of huge concern.

Earlier this year, TSYT launched its three-voyage programme of Exploration, Empowerment and Leadership, which combines outdoor learning with personal development, social development, and practical life skills. It supports young people on their journey to adulthood and equips them with skills and resilience, which will sustain them throughout their lives.

In addition, the programme offers pathways into volunteering, as well as careers in the maritime sector and ocean environment. Ultimately, it develops future leaders, mature and responsible contributors to society and enables young people to create their own, better outcomes.

TSYT Young Ambassador, Charlotte (18), said: “TSYT has helped me develop my leadership skills, I have so much more confidence, and sailing helps me escape from my daily life.

“I have better mental health and I feel safe and appreciated on board. I struggle with insomnia at home, and when I’m sailing this almost goes away completely.”

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 £11,250, 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 £22,500 overall.

TSYT Head of Fundraising and Marketing, Ali Renn, says: “Our voyages equip young people with increased confidence, resilience, and tangible skills, which they can apply to their everyday lives and thrive within their communities.

“With the help of our generous supporters, we aim to reach our doubled target of £22,500 in just seven days. Please donate to our campaign during the live week and help us to change even more young lives at sea. Thank you.”

For more information, visit tallships.org.

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