RMNEF Newsletter November 2025
Why University Funding Changes Matter to the RMNEF
As the higher-education landscape continues to shift, recent government reforms are placing universities under increasing financial pressure, reduced funding and rising living costs for students. For young people from seafaring families, these challenges can make the journey to and through university even harder. As institutions scale back bursaries and support services, the RMNEF’s role grows ever more important, bridging financial gaps, sustaining access to education, and ensuring that maritime children are not left adrift by national policy changes. https://www.universitiesuk.ac.uk/latest/insights-and-analysis/financial-impact-government-policy
Expanding Access to Special Education
Across the UK, new initiatives continue to broaden access to specialist education for children with additional needs. In Devon, a new state-funded school dedicated to supporting children with Autism and ADHD has opened in Tavistock. Castlebridge School currently has 12 pupils, with plans to grow to 30 before moving to a new, larger site in Ivybridge by 2027, which will accommodate a further 125 students. Run by the Special Partnership Trust, the school provides a calm, sensory-aware environment with small class sizes and individualised learning. Devon County Council says the model will help retain funding within the county while strengthening local SEND provision for families. https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/cglg43zyn40o
UK Fishing and Coastal Growth Fund Launched
The UK government has announced a new £360 million Fishing and Coastal Growth Fund to modernise the nation’s fishing fleet and support coastal communities. Of this, £56 million is earmarked for Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland to address regional needs, with funding managed by the devolved governments. The initiative will invest in new technology, equipment, and training for the next generation of fishers, while boosting local economies, tourism, and trade. Fisheries Minister, Dame Angela Eagle, said the fund will revitalise coastal communities and ensure the sector thrives for generations, while the National Federation of Fishermen’s Organisations welcomed the investment as a driver for sustainable growth across the UK’s fishing industry. https://www.gov.uk/government/news/fishing-and-coastal-growth-fund-will-boost-regional-economies
Spotlight
Safeguarding. Supporting Children and Families in Need
When we think of safeguarding, we often think of protecting children from abuse or neglect. But safeguarding also means recognising when a child or family is struggling, when financial pressures, emotional strain, or challenging home circumstances start to affect a child’s education, wellbeing, and confidence.
At the Royal Merchant Navy Education Foundation, we understand that when families face challenges, children can find it harder to concentrate, attend school regularly, or take part in everyday activities. What might start as a missed trip or lack of uniform can quickly grow into something more serious.
Safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility, and it begins with awareness.
Sometimes it’s not always obvious when someone is struggling, especially in busy school life. But small changes in a child or parent’s behaviour can be quiet signs that things aren’t quite right at home. As friends, fellow parents, or part of a school community, we’re often the first to notice when someone seems a little different and reaching out with kindness can make all the difference.
Here are a few things to be aware of:
· A child who seems tired or missing more days than usual – They might be coping with things outside of school that are affecting their energy or attendance.
· Lack of uniform or school supplies – If a child often doesn’t have what they need for school, it could be a sign that a family is finding finances hard to manage.
· Changes in mood or confidence – Children who suddenly seem withdrawn, anxious, or frustrated might be feeling pressure from home life or family circumstances.
· Not joining in – A child who stops attending clubs, school trips, or birthday parties might be facing barriers they can’t easily talk about.
· Parents under pressure – Sometimes the adults show the strain too. A parent might seem more tired, distracted, or distant than usual. When everything starts to feel too much, even small tasks like replying to messages or sorting school admin can feel overwhelming.
These are all gentle signs that a family could use a bit of support, this is where friendship and community really matter. A quick check-in, a friendly chat at pick-up time, or a quiet offer of help can mean more than you realise. You don’t need to have all the answers, sometimes, just listening and sharing information about available support can make a huge difference.
If you think a family might need extra help, RMNEF and other maritime charities can step in to provide practical and educational support.
How RMNEF can help
We know that financial strain can directly affect a child’s education in particular their attendance, focus, and ability to take part in everyday school life. That’s why our grants are designed to ease those pressures and help families stay afloat. RMNEF can provide:
• Help with school costs – Uniforms, shoes, stationery, digital access, and other essential learning materials.
• Funding for enrichment – School trips, extracurricular clubs, and educational experiences that help children learn and connect.
• Support for tuition or specialist education – Including help for children with additional learning needs or those who have fallen behind.
• Emergency family assistance – For families facing sudden hardship due to loss, illness, or the challenges of maritime life.
Every request is handled with compassion and confidentiality. Our goal is simple: to make sure no child misses out on education because of circumstances beyond their control.
Other organisations that can help
We work closely with other maritime and family support charities, each offering their own expertise:
• ⚓ The Fishermen’s Mission – Practical, financial, and emotional support for fishermen and their families.
• 🚢 The Sailors’ Children’s Society – Grants, counselling, and family support for children of seafaring families in hardship.
• 🧭 The Royal Seamen’s Orphan & Children’s Home (RSLOI) – Assistance for children and young people affected by the loss or hardship of a parent at sea.
If you notice a family or child who might be struggling or if you are finding things difficult yourself, please reach out. Whether it’s direct help from RMNEF or a referral to one of our partner organisations, support is available.
By staying alert, offering understanding, and working together, we can help ensure every child has the stability, resources, and confidence to focus on their education and their future.
Dates for the Diary
- 5th November – Bonfire Night
- 10th–14th November – Anti‑Bullying Week
- 11th November –Remembrance Day
- 20th November – World Children’s Day
- 25th-26th November – Merchant Navy Welfare Board Annual Seafarers Conference
