Jubilee Sailing Trust

Founded in 1978, the Jubilee Sailing Trust (JST) has a unique Mission: to give people of mixed abilities and circumstances the freedom to explore their ability, potential and place in the world through inclusive adventures at sea. Up to half our beneficiaries each year may have a disability or impairment, but we also work with those with mental health conditions or long-term ill-health issues; the lonely or socially isolated; those dealing with significant difficulties or change in their career or educational life; and, people from disadvantaged backgrounds, including young people. These groups already faced huge challenges in their lives, situations which have only been made worse by events such as the COVID-19 pandemic and recent cost of living crisis. Our tall ship, S.V. Tenacious, is the vessel by which we deliver our charitable activities. She was built so that diverse groups of people, including disabled and non-disabled people, work together to sail her as crew, not passengers. Onboard we focus on ability, vs disability, with built-in features such as Braille signage, hearing loops, tactile and vibrating alarms, handrails, lifts, adjustable height furniture and washroom facilities, and a bowsprit wide enough to accommodate a wheelchair, as well as ascender systems to enable all to go aloft (if they wish to). We show all who sail with us that mixed ability teams can work together as valued team members in an accessible environment. For our non-disabled crews this tackles social barriers towards disability, which is a key part of our work. By creating face-to-face opportunities to understand and experience the abilities and capabilities of disabled people we break down negative attitudes and perceptions surrounding people with disabilities or impairments. This increased understanding and learning experience is of great public benefit when all voyage crew return to their workplaces, schools, and wider communities, creating a more inclusive future for all.