A letter of thanks
Dear Cirdan Trust,
I initially found out about The Cirdan Sailing Trust after searching online for adventurous activities that S could engage in. After a serious of traumas between 2018-2019, S has been suffering poor mental health and was extremely withdrawn, fearful of all old and new activities, mostly non verbal and had been unemployed for four years. I had come to feel that S very much needed to meet challenges where he could get beyond the limiting fear he was experiencing and overcome problems. The Cirdan Sailing Trust voyages seemed to completely fulfil this criteria.
The application process was straightforward and no proof was required of S’s financial position. I felt this was important as it immediately showed genuine inclusiveness and trust. Throughout applying for the voyage Lyndsey was very responsive and supportive. She also supported us to help S get further funding, which was also easily accessible.
As the journey approached, S was obviously feeling some anxiety. However, on arrival, Tom (Skipper) seemed to put him somewhat at ease as we saw some mutual conversation happening and even a smile from S as we left; conversation and smiles being a rare occurrence. By chance S had forgotten his phone which actually I feel was a blessing in the end as it avoided anxious calls from me and allowed S to be completely immersed in the experience. Tom kindly provided some lovely photos afterwards which we were very grateful for.
On returning, S seemed tired, calm and thoughtful. He told us quite a bit about the various activities he’d been asked to do. He rarely goes into detail about anything he’s been involved in so this was an immediate positive. He also told us he’d found the boat and the actual sailing ‘interesting’, another positive as S infrequently voices any engagement/enjoyment. In a rare moment of eloquence he said “It was an incredible adventure; being at one with the boat and the sea felt amazing”. Generally S doesn’t discuss his feelings at all so to express this was extraordinary.
In the time following his adventure we have seen some significant changes. Pre-voyage, apart from the supported art classes he attends, he was largely just staying within the four walls, in isolation at his flat. Following the voyage he has been out and exploring/walking in his local area everyday. As I’ve said, S’s communication was minimal before his voyage but this has improved since including directly phoning his Dad (generally he doesn’t take the initiative to phone anyone himself) and even taking his phone with him so he can be contacted. That he now feels his local world has opened up a little and that he wants to be more proactive in communication are huge gains.
Before S’s mental breakdown, he attained advanced highers at school and had intended to become a film maker. Since, he did try to enter further education but his mental state made it impossible to continue. During the course of the sailing trip, S was able to achieve his ‘Competent Crew’ award and this is also something lasting and valuable which he has gained from the journey. I feel it is a testament to the skills and dedication of the crew that S was able to accomplish this as he wouldn’t normally engage enough to realise anything to completion.
As a parent of a mentally struggling young adult I am painfully aware of the lack of opportunities that begins to unfold following a mental health crisis. The Cirdan Sailing Trust has been a beacon of possibility in this dark place. The inherent inclusiveness combined with participation in a well organised, adventurous activity which has pushed the boundaries of what S has come to believe he can achieve is just what he has needed.
Overall, I feel this has been a very positive and helpful experience for S which stands him in good stead as we continue to help him to push these boundaries and move towards complete recovery. We are so grateful to the Cirdan Sailing Trust; the purity of your intention to support young, disadvantaged adults and offer challenge and adventure has shone through loud and clear throughout S’s involvement. I can’t say enough how rare, vital and invaluable the opportunities you offer are.
We would like to thank all the staff involved, seen and unseen, for their help in providing this unique opportunity and wish you every success in the future.
Kind Regards
Fiona (Mum)