RMNEF Newsletter August 2026
News and Noteworthy
A Word From Diana, RMNEF CEO
“As we prepare for another academic year, I’d like to thank our partner charities and every Foundationer who applied for PALs funding, our monthly living support scheme for college and university students.
This was the first year we introduced both a fixed application deadline and our new online application form, and I’m delighted with the response. Thanks to everyone’s cooperation, our Trustees were able to approve eight applications at our most recent Board meeting, with just three remaining to process. This means most students now have their funding in place well before the start of term, giving them valuable peace of mind.
I’d also like to thank our Trustees, who generously volunteer their time. By bringing the application process forward, they were able to make funding decisions before enjoying their summer commitments.
I wish all our students every success as they prepare for the exciting year ahead.”
Diana Pearson
Bumper Start for UK Bluefin Tuna Fishery
The UK’s 2026 bluefin tuna season has got off to a strong start, with many authorised commercial vessels reporting excellent catches during the opening weeks of the fishery.The return of bluefin tuna to UK waters continues to create valuable opportunities for coastal communities and small-scale fishing businesses.
If a son or daughter of a seafaring person and is considering a career in the fishing industry, the RMNEF may be able to help with the costs of getting started. We can consider applications for essential safety training, qualifications, certificates (tickets) and other course fees needed to begin a career at sea. If you’re thinking about taking this next step, please get in touch with our team before booking the training, we’ll be happy to discuss the support that may be available.
Spotlight
Back to School Support: Planning Ahead for the Best Start
We may only be half way through the summer holidays but now is the time to start thinking about costs for the future. Whether your child is starting primary school or moving up to secondary school the costs can quickly add up.
At RMNEF, we understand the financial pressures that education can place on maritime families. Our education grants are designed to help children and young adults access the equipment, resources and opportunities they need to thrive.
The earlier you begin planning, the more we may be able to help.
Plan Your Budget
Before making an application, take some time to consider the costs involved in the coming academic year.
Ask yourself:
• What essential items will my child need?
• Which costs can I cover myself?
• Where would additional support make the biggest difference?
Making a simple budget can help identify where you may need assistance and allows us to understand how our support can best complement your own contribution.
What Can We Help With?
Every application is considered individually, but education grants may help with a wide range of educational expenses, including:
• Laptop or computer equipment
• Specialist educational equipment
• Course textbooks and essential books
• School clubs and extracurricular activities such as; swimming lessons and music lessons
• Educational trips where appropriate
• School Lunches
• Other essential items required as part of a child’s education
If you’re unsure whether something is eligible, we’re always happy to discuss it with you before you apply.
Applying for an Education Grant
Our application process is straightforward, but providing all the required information helps us assess your application as quickly as possible.
When completing your application, you’ll usually need to provide:
• A completed application form (available online on our website or a Form A through a partner charity)
• Your child’s birth certificate (to include parentage)
• Details of the school or course they will be attending
• The name of the course or programme (where applicable)
• The expected start and end dates (of the required support)
• Details of the support you are requesting
• Any quotations, invoices or information relating to the costs involved
Providing complete and accurate information at the outset helps avoid delays.
Planning Ahead Makes a Difference
Many education-related expenses arise before the start of term. Applying as early as possible gives us the best opportunity to process your application before purchases need to be made.
If you know your child will need equipment, lessons or support for the coming academic year, don’t wait until term has started. Our grants cannot be backdated; we therefore advise that you don’t commit until you have heard an outcome from us.
What Happens Next?
Once we’ve received your application, our team will review the information and may contact you if anything further is needed.
If your application is approved, the RMNEF will normally make payments directly to the school, supplier or organisation providing the goods or services, rather than reimbursing costs already paid by families.
This helps ensure that support is used for its intended purpose and can often make the process easier for everyone involved.
We’re Here to Help
If you’re unsure about the application process or would like to discuss your circumstances before applying, please don’t hesitate to contact the RMNEF team. We’re here to help and are always happy to answer your questions.
Planning ahead today could make all the difference to your child’s education tomorrow.
Dates for the Diary
- 12 August – International Youth Day
- 13 August – A Level Results Day
- 20 August – GCSE Results Day
- 3 September – Merchant Navy Day (Coming Soon)
