Help Charlie to ensure that no child is ever left behind

Fellowship Afloat Charitable Trust’s (FACT) Bursary Fund exists to make sure that “no one is left behind” and to support those who want to visit with their school, youth or church group but have limited means to do so. It supports both individuals and groups that might otherwise miss out on an adventure at FACT.

FACT’s Bursary Fund was set up in 1997 with £32,391 from the sale of Cockney Spirit. Since then gifts have been made from friends, some on a regular monthly basis, and some on an ad hoc basis. Grant Making Trusts have seen the difference a stay onboard can make and have also supported the fund.

Since 1997, the Bursary Fund has disbursed over £250,000 and supported over 3,500 individuals to have a life changing adventure onboard – growing their confidence, experiencing community and activities in a caring Christian environment. That’s more than a whole year’s occupancy!

A group leader recently said; “Without the bursary fund there would have been many very disappointed children. They had a wonderful time taking part in a range of activities, for some it was their first experience being away from home and for all it was a great opportunity to gain independence, build confidence, overcome anxieties and learn to trust. Thank you”

FACT, an RYA accredited residential sailing centre, is based in Tollesbury on a unique converted light vessel and offers lots of activities – high ropes, climbing wall, power boating, kayaking, sailing, field studies, archery, team building games and night walks. Each year FACT welcomes over 2,000 visitors and each residential visit is tailor-made to fit the requirements of the group, many of which have been coming to FACT for over 20 years.

I am taking part in the 55-mile London to Brighton cycle ride on Sunday 15th September with a number of other FACT friends. It will be a wonderful but challenging ride and it would be fantastic if you could sponsor me. All money raised will go directly to FACT’s Bursary Fund for 2024 – it is anticipated that over £30,000 will be needed this year to grant all requests. Why not find out more about FACT at www.fact.org.uk or come to our open day on Saturday 13th April 2024.