RMNEF Newsletter March 2026

News and Noteworthy

Beneficiary Update
We are delighted to celebrate the achievements of one of our recent beneficiaries, Finley, who is studying at Falmouth Marine School on the Professional Superyacht Engineer FdSc programme. We were pleased to help fund the first five weeks of his studies whilst he completed the Turn to Starboard sailing course. This was a mandatory element of the programme, not covered by student loan funding. Finley showed real commitment by working hard to save a substantial amount towards the cost himself. We are especially proud to share that he has successfully interviewed for, and secured, a volunteer position with the RNLI crew at Padstow, where he will serve alongside his studies, a fantastic achievement and testament to his dedication.

Brighter Weather Ahead
The start of 2026 has brought an exceptionally wet and stormy winter across the UK, with rain falling somewhere in the country every single day so far and many regions seeing persistent downpours and rough seas well into February. This relentless weather has not only affected coastal communities but also placed additional hardship on fishing families, disrupting fishing schedules and adding pressure on already stretched household budgets. In response, we’ve seen an increase in grant support from the Foundation as we strive to help those most affected stay on course with their educational goals. While the storms have been challenging, there are brighter signs ahead, spring is on the horizon, and with calmer weather expected in the coming weeks, we’re hopeful that fishing activity and family livelihoods will begin to stabilise once again.

Send Reform Update
The UK Government has launched a public consultation, SEND reform: putting children and young people first, outlining proposals to improve the Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) system in England. The plans aim to make support more consistent, timely and inclusive for children and young people aged 0–25, with a stronger focus on early intervention, local provision and better integration across education, health and care services. Families, young people and professionals are encouraged to share their views to help shape a more effective and inclusive SEND system for the future. READ MORE HERE.

Spotlight

Supporting Students at University: PALs Living Expenses Funding and our NEW CHANGES

Starting university is an exciting step, but for many students the cost of living can add real pressure. At RMNEF, we believe financial circumstances shouldn’t limit opportunity.
Our PALs (Post A-Level Students) funding provides monthly support to help students focus on their studies and make the most of university life.

What is PALs funding?
PALs offers monthly financial support towards everyday living costs while studying at university:
• Living at home – up to £415 per month
• Living away from home (including student or rented accommodation) – up to £620 per month
Awards are based on individual circumstances. Funding is paid directly to the student at the end of each month and continues for the full duration of their course, subject to ongoing requirements.

Who can apply?
The student must be the child of a:
• Sea Going Fishing Person
• Merchant Navy seafarer
• Royal Fleet Auxiliary crew member
• RNLI crew member
Service may be past or present, with a minimum of two years’ service for RNLI

How to apply
Applications can be made:
• Via a partner charity 
• Directly to RMNEF 

Information Required
To assess an application, the following information must be provided in full (See Crib Sheet):

All sections of the application must be completed and all requested documents uploaded for the application to be considered.

• Details of household income, including three months’ bank statements from parent(s) or legal guardian(s)
(If parents live separately, bank statements from both households are required).
• Copy of the student’s Birth Certificate (to include parentage).
• Proof of qualifying service.
• UCAS choices and full course details, including:
  • University name.
  • Course title.
  • Course start and end dates.
• Student Finance/Student Loan confirmation (if available at the time of application).
• Details of living arrangements and travel plans (particularly if the student will be living at home).
• A short written statement from the student explaining how PALs funding would support them during their time at university.

How to Apply-NEW SYSTEM              
Applications must be submitted via our secure online application link (Click here).
The secure link will be issued to the student and their parent(s) or legal guardian(s), who will be required to complete the form and upload all requested information. To make the process as straightforward as possible, we recommend that you have all the required information to hand using the crib sheet before starting your application
Applications may be completed jointly by the student and their parent(s) or legal guardian(s).
All information is handled securely and used solely for the purpose of assessing the application. Please see our Privacy Policy on our website.
 
Application Deadline – New Date
The closing date for applications is Tuesday 30th June 2026.
This deadline applies to students intending to begin university in Autumn 2026.
We will only look at applications submitted with all the required information, we strongly advise you to complete the application well in advance of the closing date.
 
What happens next?
When all required information has been received, the student and their parents will be invited to an informal video call. This is an opportunity to ask questions and talk through the application.
Following the call, the application is submitted to the RMNEF Trustees for consideration.
Any offer is conditional on the student being accepted onto their university course and places being confirmed.
All applications are assessed based on the family’s circumstances at the time of application.
 
Successful Applications.
Once elected to the Foundation, students are awarded PALs funding through our Foundation Scheme.
To remain on the scheme, we ask for:
• A quarterly attendance form, signed and stamped by the university
• Academic results at the end of the course
• An annual return of Income Form to be completed and signed annually.
 
Supporting futures, not just finances.
PALs funding is about more than money ,it’s about giving students the confidence and stability to make the most of university life.
If you’re a student, parent, or partner charity and would like to know more, we’re always happy to help.