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 between 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.

Blue Spirit works in partnership with organisations in the North-East of England which offer sailing experiences to young people. These organisations – Ocean Youth Trust North (OYTN) in North Shields, Cirdan Sailing Trust, sailing out of Hartlepool, and Derwent Reservoir Sailing Club – 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.