Southampton sailing charity must raise £500k in week to survive

 A SOUTHAMPTON sailing charity with a history of almost 50 years could stop operating vital services if it does not raise at least £500k in a week. 

The Jubilee Sailing Trust has been “deeply affected” by the pandemic and the cost-of-living rise leading to "an immediate cash flow crisis".

After crisis talks, the charity, which has a history of 44 years, announced it had failed in securing financial support from the government. 

And now, the charity says it will not survive unless it can raise £500k by next Thursday, and a total of £1.2m by the end of September. 

Founded in 1978, the trust gives people adventures at sea aboard its tall ship, Tenacious and relies entirely on fundraising and subsidised berths for voyages.

But since the outbreak of the pandemic, it has had limited opportunities to sail, only recently restarting its voyage programme. 

"Our historic journey started with the generous support of the Queen’s Jubilee Fund, and the Royal Household. It is incredibly sad that we face closure, particularly in the Queen's Platinum Jubilee Year.”

The next voyage is due to take place on April 22, 2022. 

To donate, visit www.jst.org.uk/support-us/donate.