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Isle Of Wight Charity Launches Public Appeal As 14-Year-Old Says ‘UKSA Changed My Life’

Cowes based UKSA has launched its first ever public appeal for support as it seeks to improve mental health in youngsters through water-based programmes.

The maritime charity is hoping to raise funds to help young people whose mental health has been affected by falling below the poverty line, having less time outdoors, school closures and reduced employment prospects.

One 14-year-old whose life has been turned around by one of UKSA’s bespoke programmes is Raphael 'Raffy' Stafford from Shanklin, who completed the Sea Change Foundation programme this summer.

Raffy’s father, Mark, said:

“Raffy has always struggled at school and has found classroom based learning difficult. He's now 14 and hasn't been able to integrate fully with his peers, which has given him insecurities and a lack of confidence.

"I know he's got the ability to achieve something, but he just hasn't been given the right environment to do so before.”

The programme which Raffy completed is specifically for 14-18 year olds and gives teenagers the opportunity to learn about training and careers in the maritime sector through a five-day residential trip in the school holidays. 

Raffy added:

“I don’t get on at school and struggle to make friends as I feel nervous and don’t really fit in. Before UKSA, I hadn’t stayed away from my Dad before as no one had ever invited me. I love the instructors at UKSA, and I learnt so much from them.

“I met kids from different backgrounds, but we were mates straight away and worked together really well. I finally felt like I belonged somewhere —UKSA has changed my life.”

More information is available online at www.uksa.org/christmas

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