FreeSpirit is a purpose-built community boat created to serve our coastal community, especially those who are disadvantaged, living with mental health challenges, or facing long-term chronic illnesses such as cancer. This vessel is more than just a boat; it’s a sanctuary of connection, healing, and hope.

A Journey of Hope, Healing, and a Little Madness

FreeSpirit is a custom-built community boat dedicated to supporting our coastal community, especially those who are disadvantaged, struggling with their mental health, or living with long-term illnesses such as cancer. It offers a peaceful, inclusive space for connection, reflection, and healing.

As someone who survived cancer in my youth, I know first-hand how even the smallest act of kindness can make a world of difference to your spirit and recovery. That experience shaped my path, and ultimately led me to establish *Remind MHT Ltd*, a therapeutic service committed to mental health and wellbeing.

Now, in true me fashion — and for those who know me, yes, I’m a little nuts — I’ve decided to confront my own fears by jumping out of a plane! I’m skydiving to raise funds for FreeSpirit, walking the path of those who face anxiety, trauma, and uncertainty every day. This leap is about more than adrenaline; it’s about standing up for hope, resilience, and the power of community.

I’m proud to be part of this journey and deeply grateful to all of you who’ve walked beside me in various chapters of life. If you’re able, please show your support. Every donation helps keep FreeSpirit sailing — a beacon of light for those who need it most.

With love and madness,

Jumping from a plane is a powerful reminder of how it feels to let go - of fear, of pressure, of control - and to trust in the support around us. Like with mental wellbeing, it takes courage to face the unknown, but we don’t do it alone. Taking the leap from the skies, a skydive captures the essence of FreeSpirit - the courage to soar, the trust to fall, and the grounding that comes from being supported by others. As we come back down to earth, we're reminded that no matter how high we fly, it’s the people around us who help us land with purpose, strength, and connection. FreeSpirit is about embracing the journey - together. At the Netheravon Army Parachute Association we will jump from 13,500ft - one of the highest jumps in the UK!

FREESPIRIT AIMS

- To provide maritime education training and research opportunities

- To promote an enhance mental health and wellbeing

- To support local charities which promote and enhance mental health and wellbeing

- To promote and deliver maritime ecological good practice and sustainability

The community will benefit through access to boat excursions which can address a wide range of mental health challenges through active participation informed by different therapies, tailored to individual and group needs to promote their wellbeing. The restorative qualities of blue spaces, combined with structured and creative activities helps foster emotional regulation, social connection, and personal growth. As evidence continues to support the effectiveness of nature-based therapy, boat excursions stand out as a valuable addition to the modern therapeutic toolkit.

FreeSpirit is a purpose built boat, designed to support maritime educational, training and research opportunities with many features such as live wells, interactive screens, canopies and an integrated structure to support scientific equipment. It can be used by the community 365 days a year as an on water classroom at sea, in the harbour or at its mooring providing immense flexibility to provide support regardless of the weather.

FreeSpirit will support the empowerment of people through community engagement, education, and active participation in sustainability projects. The sea angling trips introducing people to the benefits of fishing, are all specifically linked to fish stock surveys and as necessary for various groups is suitably interchanged with magnet fishing removing metallic waste from the sea bed. During maritime trips, people are encouraged to look out for debris that can be removed with use of nets fostering constant meaningful participation.

With appreciation and honour

Dr Susie Deacon