For over 10 years, we The Royal Association for Deaf people (RAD) have worked with the Pioneer Sailing Trust (PST) to enable Deaf young people an opportunity of a life time. 

During the school holidays, many Deaf young people are often left to feel isolation and excluded from society. We aim to work with local authorities and local groups to ensure there are accessibly activities bringing together Deaf young people so that they can not only build friendship but also experience new challenges. 

Every year we aim to take a group of Deaf young people on a sailing residential, this includes sailing to places like the Isle of Wright, Essex Coast, Suffolk Coast, the East Coast plus further afield. Pioneer Sailing Trust aims to provide learning opportunities for young people to equip them with skills for life, both at sea and on land.

Pioneer was built in 1864 and throughout the mid-19th century, Pioneer was known as one of the leading fishing boats with its focus on deep sea oyster fishing between Holland and the East coast. In 1942 she was destroyed after getting stuck and in 1999 Pioneer Sailing Trust was formed and set to restore Pioneer once again. Pioneer is a staggering 71 feet long and operates voyages as a working boat. 

Over the years we have seen cuts to funding which puts such opportunities at risk and we, RAD and PST, would love to continue to provide accessible sailing residential for more Deaf young people over the coming years.

On Wednesday 31st October 2018, RAD staff and volunteers will be doing a fundraising sail in fancy dress!! - Well it is Halloween! 

Please sponsor and support us to raise vital funds to keep this amazing sailing opportunity going! 

Thank you!