Giving young people a taste of freedom on the waves.
A much needed boost
for mental health.
One in four people will face a mental health challenge at some stage in their life, and none are more affected these days than our youth.
At the same time, research has shown that just being in blue spaces (like the sea) can have a positive effect on stress reduction and wellbeing. Sailing itself also has multiple benefits. Learning to sail helps develop essential life skills.
We believe all struggling young people deserve opportunities like this, which is why we offer subsidised sailing experiences to those who would otherwise be unable to access them.
What we do
Blue Spirit – Laury Gratiet Bursary Fund grants sailing bursaries to young people (aged 14 to 25) who are experiencing a mental health challenge or facing social / economic disadvantage.
Through our sailing partners in the north-east of England, we offer anything from half-day dinghy sailing, weekend sails and 6-day residential voyages. You don’t need any experience or special gear to participate – just some enthusiasm and an open mind.
Our bursaries will cover everything directly related to your sailing trip, including food onboard, hire of sailing waterproofs and visitor mooring costs. You can also talk to us if you think you may have difficulties getting to the port or sailing club or will need to bring a carer on board with you.
Partners
Blue Spirit works in partnership with organisations in the North-East of England which offer sailing experiences to young people. These organisations have a wealth of experience in providing safe and exhilarating sailing experiences to a wide range of people.
We also partner with community groups and charities who are well-placed to identify and refer young people who would benefit from this kind of experience. This fund is not limited to people suffering from mental health issues, but is for any young person who would not normally be able to access this kind of experience and who would benefit from enhanced wellbeing, gaining self-confidence or an opportunity to have time for themselves in nature.
Laury
Laury had a beautiful smile, an infectious laugh and a warm heart. He was sensitive, intelligent, stubborn, charming, lovable, passionate, idealistic, infuriating, determined and affectionate!
He cared passionately about people and planet and he was motivated by making the world a better place. Beset by mental health challenges, Laury took his own life in July 2020. Although his issues proved too much for him in the end, Laury always felt happiest when sailing, and it was his passion from the first time he set foot in an Optimist at the tender age of seven.
“Being out on the sea let me just leave all the stresses of day-to-day life. Sailing has definitely improved my mental health.”
— Ira., crew member with Ocean Youth Trust North, July 2022
Contact
Feel free to contact us with any questions.
Email
bluespiritsails@gmail.com
Phone
07943 663368
To sign up to our newsletter, click here.
Or to apply for a sailing experience, click here.
To read our safeguarding policy, click here.