Sailors' Children's Society

Sailors' Children's Society, a national UK charity founded in 1821 in Hull, dedicates itself to supporting children and families from seafaring backgrounds—spanning Royal Navy, Merchant Navy, fishing, ferries, cruise ships, and inland waterways—during crises like bereavement, life-limiting illness, or family breakdown. Rooted in compassion, dignity, and partnership, its mission alleviates childhood poverty, maximises disadvantaged children's potential, and restores family stability through long-term, holistic aid, ensuring 'children should be children' amid trauma. With royal patronage from HRH The Princess Royal and partnerships with maritime charities like The Seafarers' Charity, it aids nearly 500 children annually via specialist Family Support Officers providing emotional guidance, practical help, and networks.

Funding exclusively targets UK maritime families in severe economic/emotional crisis, offering means-tested monthly welfare grants (£36+ per child), twice-yearly clothing/uniform allowances, one-off aid for school trips, equipment, fuel, or emergencies (£50–£700), Christmas gifts/meals, and £700 respite holidays. Support is tailored, ongoing until self-sufficiency or children finish education, with annual reviews.

Eligibility requires direct applications from families/guardians confirming six months' sea service, children under 18 in full-time education, and means-tested benefits; proof via website form, phone, or email triggers assessment/home visits, with decisions in weeks—rolling basis, no deadlines. It funds individuals only, not charities/organisations, excluding general child poverty or non-maritime cases; its niche focus on seafaring-specific hardships and blend of financial/emotional aid sets it distinctly apart.