Peter, Building Services Manager at Kier Construction, recently used his company volunteer days to support the Tall Ships Youth Trust (TSYT), contributing to essential maintenance on one of the charity’s iconic Challenger yachts.

“I feel both proud and privileged to have had the opportunity to use two days of working time to volunteer and support a charity of my choice, namely the Tall Ships Youth Trust,” Peter shared.

Peter first supported TSYT in 2021 when he signed up for a Heavy Weather Training weekend. In an unexpected twist, Storm Arwen arrived, providing all the heavy weather the crew could handle. Adult voyages like this one, help fund our youth development work and enable us to change more young lives at sea.

Since then, Peter has joined two additional TSYT voyages—a Falmouth sailing adventure and the Brave the Irish Sea passage from Belfast to Portsmouth. Reflecting on these experiences, he said, “Both provided great experience and the opportunity to meet and make new sailing friends. Sailing takes you out of your comfort zone, teamwork is essential, and preparation and planning help to ensure that everyone has a safe but exhilarating experience on board.”

Kier Construction’s volunteer leave policy, which offers all employees two paid days each year to support charitable initiatives, reflects a growing trend among companies that recognise the benefits of community engagement. These volunteer days allow employees to step away from their usual roles, develop new skills, and build connections while positively impacting the communities they support. Peter’s volunteer days at TSYT demonstrate how this not only benefits employees but also supports organisations like TSYT, which rely on volunteer support to maintain their fleet.

Corporate partnerships with charities provide companies with easy access to volunteer opportunities for their employees. TSYT collaborate closely with corporate supporters to ensure these volunteer days are meaningful for everyone involved and mutually beneficial for both organisations.

Peter joined Kier Construction this year and soon contacted TSYT to offer his support in maintaining Challenger 3, one of TSYT’s Challenger yachts. These vessels require year-round maintenance to stay seaworthy and deliver transformative sailing experiences for young people.

“My two days began here, reporting to the offices to meet the maintenance manager. I received a very friendly and warm welcome, a cup of coffee, and this set the tone for my time helping them,” Peter said. “I helped complete a number of maintenance tasks on board and worked with other members of staff and volunteers. Whilst it was just a brief visit, I thoroughly enjoyed working with the team and would encourage everyone to consider supporting this worthy organisation.”

We look forward to welcoming Peter back to TSYT in early 2025 for the Adult Mile Builder weekend, continuing his journey with us and his support for our mission to change young lives at sea.