We aim to provide an opportunity for groups of young people, with their leaders, to experience the adventure and challenge of life at sea. Working alongside our qualified crew, the groups take an active role in running and sailing the vessel both above and below deck. Through this involvement the young people benefit and the leaders use this to build on their work after they return to dry land. Evaluations by youth leaders, from voyages across the fleet during recent years, show the levels and type of benefits gained by the young people. The information gained from these evaluations is consistent and it is very clear that, amongst the benefits gained, significant developments are made in the areas of sense of achievement, facing challenges, team building, self-confidence and positive attitudes. This on board experience can change the course of a young person's life. Grants allocated from our Voyage of Discovery Fund provide financial assistance to groups unable to cover the costs involved in a voyage. The fund is made up from donations received each year from supporters, companies and Trusts. This form of assistance is particularly attractive to donors, because they can easily monitor the effectiveness of their grant. For 2009 we are looking to raise another £200,000k for The Voyage of Discovery Fund. This will ensure there is sufficient funding available to award the grants needed to help youth organisations get on board and provide this life changing experience for their young people.