Supported by RNRMC funding
For many veterans, leaving military service can bring unexpected challenges. The camaraderie, structure and sense of purpose that defined daily life can suddenly feel distant, leaving some feeling isolated or uncertain about what comes next.
For one veteran supported by Turn to Starboard, stepping aboard a yacht became the start of a new chapter.
“As soon as I arrived at Turn to Starboard, I felt like I was home. I am surrounded by veterans again. They are my new crew! And I have purpose again, sailing on the sea, which is my happy place, supporting other veterans and taking my Yachtmasters exam.”
– Janet Riddell, Turn to Starboard beneficiary
Turn to Starboard uses sailing as a powerful tool to support personnel who have been medically downgraded, veterans and their families. Through therapeutic sailing programmes and accredited Royal Yachting Association (RYA) training, participants can improve their wellbeing, build new skills and reconnect with others who share similar experiences.
The charity supports veterans facing a wide range of challenges, including poor mental health, social isolation, difficulties transitioning to civilian life, and barriers to employment. Sailing offers more than just time on the water; it creates opportunities for personal growth, connection and renewed purpose.
A grant from Royal Navy and Royal Marines Charity (RNRMC) is helping to support the running costs of one of the charity’s newest training yachts for one full year, and we continue to work with them on upcoming projects.
Ellie Love, Turn 2 Starboard said:
“We are incredibly grateful to Royal Navy and Royal Marines Charity for their continued support. Their investment enables us not only to deliver our core programmes, but also to reach some of the most marginalised and underserved within the Armed Forces community. In doing so, they are helping us demonstrate the transformative power of adventure-based activity, not simply as a short-term intervention, but as a pathway to long-term, sustained recovery. Through sailing, veterans can rebuild confidence, forge meaningful social connections, rediscover purpose and focus on their strengths rather than their limitations. As awareness grows of the value of non-clinical therapeutic support, it is vital that veterans have access to opportunities that empower them not just to survive, but to truly thrive. We are grateful to RNRMC for helping make that possible.”
The yacht is dedicated to delivering therapeutic sailing activities for groups most underserved within the Armed Forces community, including women veterans with experience of Military Sexual Trauma (MST), as well as supporting sail training through the charity’s Skipper Scholarship Scheme.
With demand for services continuing to grow, the ability to operate the yacht at full capacity through this funding is hugely beneficial to the T2S. It enables them to expand access to its various schemes and offerings and, very simply, helps support more veterans and family members.
The impact of the programme is also reflected in the experiences of those who attend its courses:
“The instructors and staff at T2S have been brilliant. They understand that everyone who walks through the door may have their own personal challenge going on. I’d like to give a personal thanks to Helen, Gareth and Phil for welcoming me in.”
-Alex, Royal Marines Commando veteran
The benefits of sailing are far-reaching. Time spent on the water can improve physical wellbeing, reduce stress and anxiety, and provide a valuable connection with nature. Participants also develop teamwork, leadership and resilience skills that can support them in everyday life and future careers.
By creating opportunities for adventure, learning and connection, Turn to Starboard is helping veterans and their families rediscover confidence and build positive futures.
If you’re a veteran looking for a new adventure, with a love of the sea, and meeting new shipmates, Turn to Starboard could help you navigate the next stage of your journey.
Find out more about Turn to Starboard and the support available by visiting their website: https://www.turntostarboard.co.uk/our-services
