Secure future

The RYA has secured the future of UK based charity, Sailability

After a difficult chapter for all UK based charities, the Royal Yachting Association has announced they are to secure the future of the charity RYA Sailability, which will include the employment of RYA Sailability staff.

The move was formally agreed at the RYA Council meeting, which took place on 15March and all changes will be effective from 1 April 2006. They will include office and accountancy services provided by the RYA and the Sailability team, which will continue to be managed by Debbie Blachford, will have the full support of RYA management and access to all services of the other RYA departments.

The effect of these changes is that the core costs of running the Charity, the employment of staff and the administration, will be reduced to a minimal level. This will enable the Sailability staff to concentrate on generating funds and grant making, thereby providing encouragement and developing opportunities for Sailability Groups and Classes in the knowledge that every penny raised will be destined for grants for persons with disabilities to go sailing. There will no longer be the need to raise substantial sums to fund the Charity’s administration costs.

Regular meetings between the Trustees and the RYA operational side will keep both parties informed and involved in the activities of the other and retain the knowledge and experience of the staff as a resource for the Charity.

Chris Simon, Chairman of Sailability, said “The Trustees are grateful to RYA Chairman, Eddie Ramsden, his Officers and Rod Carr for their very positive response to the need to establish a new operational structure for the Charity”.

Rod Carr OBE, RYA Chief Executive said “RYA Sailability plays a crucial part in ensuring the needs of disabled sailors are addressed. We are delighted to be able to offer RYA Sailability the help they need to continue their vital work and look forward to developing our well established partnership”.