Yesterday, our 121 Business Links meeting at ISS Airview had the distinct pleasure of hosting Carol Smith as our ‘Charity Chat’ guest. It was an truly inspiring session, shedding light on the incredible work of Blue Spirit, and we extend our heartfelt thanks to Carol for joining us and sharing their impactful mission.
What is Blue Spirit?
Blue Spirit is a remarkable organisation dedicated to transforming the lives of young people aged 14 to 25 who are navigating mental health challenges or facing social and economic disadvantage. Their belief is simple yet profound: being in “blue spaces” – like the sea – and learning to sail can have a deeply positive effect on well-being, stress reduction, and the development of essential life skills.
They achieve this by providing subsidised sailing experiences, removing financial barriers that would otherwise prevent young individuals from accessing such enriching opportunities. Blue Spirit collaborates with sailing partners across the north-east of England to offer a range of experiences, from invigorating half-day dinghy sails to immersive weekend trips and even transformative 6-day residential voyages.
Every direct cost related to the sailing trip is covered by Blue Spirit, including food onboard, waterproof gear, and mooring fees. They even go the extra mile by assisting with transportation to the port or sailing club and can accommodate carers, ensuring accessibility for all.
A Mission Rooted in Compassion
Blue Spirit actively works to build relationships with communities and professionals in deprived areas, ensuring that these life-changing opportunities reach the young people who need them most. They handle all the complexities of fundraising, booking, and liaison with community groups, making it seamless for youth organisations to connect young people with these experiences.
The organisation was established in memory of Laury Gratiet, who found profound happiness and peace through sailing despite his own struggles with mental health. His legacy continues to inspire every journey Blue Spirit facilitates.
We are so grateful to Carol for bringing Blue Spirit’s vital work to our attention yesterday. It’s a powerful reminder of how impactful dedicated initiatives can be in nurturing the next generation. We encourage everyone to learn more about their mission and support them if you can.
Find out more about Blue Spirit and their incredible work: www.bluespirit.uk