RMNEF Newsletter January 2026
News and Noteworthy
Celebrating Our 2025 Support Achievements In 2025
The RMNEF was proud to support children and young adults from seafaring families in a variety of ways. Over the year, we provided 41 one‑off grants to help with essentials such as laptops, school uniforms, and other educational resources. We supported 49 university students with monthly living grants to help them focus on their studies, and 24 school-aged children received assistance with school fees and educational extras. Additionally, 7 young adults were supported with career training opportunities to help them gain skills for the future. These achievements reflect our ongoing commitment to ensuring every child and young person has the resources they need to thrive academically and personally.
Looking Ahead – RMNEF’s Aims for 2026
In 2026, the Royal Merchant Navy Education Foundation remains committed to providing practical, accessible educational support for children and young adults from maritime families. Our goals include expanding our reach to even more Merchant Navy, Fishing, and RNLI families, making our funding quicker and easier to access, and ensuring that no child from a seafaring background is held back by financial barriers to education. We will continue to focus on supporting essential needs such as educational extras, specialist equipment, and tuition, helping every child to reach their full potential.
Thinking of Fishing Families and RNLI Volunteers
As storms and rough seas continue to impact fishing communities in and around the UK, including the recent grounding, rescue and salvage efforts involving the FV Fastnet off Dingle, Ireland. Our thoughts are with all those affected by these challenging conditions and the crews who work tirelessly on the water. We also recognise the incredible dedication of RNLI volunteers and rescue crews who respond to emergencies at sea, often in severe weather, to bring fishermen and mariners to safety. Incidents at sea can impact not only the safety of those on the water but also the livelihoods and wellbeing of families at home. For children in affected families who require additional educational support, the RMNEF is able to provide practical funding to help alleviate these challenges.
Spotlight
Supporting Every Child’s Educational Journey — Including Those with SEND
In this months Newsletter, we focus on Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND), practical support options, and the crucial role of Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs).
Understanding SEND: Special Educational Needs and Disabilities
What is SEND?
SEND refers to children and young people who have learning difficulties or disabilities that make it harder for them to learn than most others of the same age. These can include:
• Learning difficulties such as dyslexia or dyscalculia.
• Communication or interaction challenges, including autism.
• Physical disabilities affecting mobility or coordination.
• Social, emotional, or mental health difficulties.
Children with SEND may need additional or tailored support to thrive in school.
Types of Support for Children with SEND
Support in schools follows a graduated approach:
1 Ordinarily Available Provision
◦ Everyday teaching adjustments that benefit all pupils.
2 SEN Support
◦ Targeted help for children who need more than universal provision.
◦ Coordinated by the school’s SENCO (Special Educational Needs Coordinator).
3 Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP)
◦ For children with more complex or long-term needs, an EHCP provides a legal, formal plan covering education, health, and care.
Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs): What You Need to Know
An EHCP is a legally binding plan for children and young people (up to age 25) who require specialised support beyond what schools can provide on their own.
Who Needs an EHCP?
• Children whose needs cannot be fully met through regular SEN support.
• Children with multiple or complex needs affecting learning, health, or social development.
How an EHCP Works:
1 Assessment – Requested by parents, schools, or professionals via the local authority.
2 Draft Plan – Includes your child’s needs and proposed support.
3 Review and Finalisation – Parents provide feedback before the plan is issued.
4 Implementation – Schools, health services, and other agencies deliver support as outlined.
5 Annual Review – Ensures the plan continues to meet your child’s needs.
What an EHCP Includes:
• Child’s strengths and areas of need
• Educational goals and outcomes
• Health and social care support
• Specific resources or equipment required
• Named school or setting
Key Benefits:
• Formal recognition of a child’s needs
• Access to tailored support and resources
• Multi-agency coordination
• Parental involvement and voice in planning
Helpful Resource: Gov.uk EHCP Guide
Supporting Your Child at Home
Parents and carers can help by:
• Establishing a calm, predictable routine
• Encouraging reading and exploring hobbies and interests
• Using recommended online learning tools and resources
• Staying in regular communication with teachers and SENCOs
Local SENDIASS services also provide independent advice and support for navigating assessments, plans, and school partnerships.
Financial and Educational Assistance from RMNEF
The RMNEF provides practical financial support to help families meet the educational needs of their children. This includes:
· Funding for specialist equipment or therapies
· Financial Support for private assessments and tests where these are needed to understand a child’s learning needs
· Funding for extra tuition or learning support outside of school
Our aim is to ensure that families can access the resources and opportunities their children need to succeed, particularly where the cost of specialist support might otherwise be a barrier. Applications are assessed individually to make sure support is targeted where it is most needed.
Tips for Parents & Guardians
⭐ Start Early — early identification of learning difficulties improves outcomes
⭐ Know Your Rights — every child with SEND has legal entitlements
⭐ Stay Informed — keep up with SEND reforms and resources that affect support options
Dates for the Diary
- 6th January- World Day of War Orphans
- 24th January-International Day of Education
