Celebration recognised those helping to transform lives of children and families from seafaring backgrounds
Award-winning mum and son, Kat and Theo, with the Princess Royal, centre, at Hotham Hall(Image: sailorschildren.org.uk)
Princess Anne, the Princess Royal, brought a royal touch to proceedings when the work of a Hull-based charity was celebrated. Her Royal Highness has been patron of the Sailors’ Children’s Society since 2003 and joined the charity, its partners, supporters and families at Hotham Hall for the special occasion.
The event, titled A Sea of Thanks, brought together volunteers, families helped by the charity and long-standing supporters to recognise the collective impact of their contribution. Founded in Hull in 1821, Sailors’ Children’s Society provides financial, practical and emotional support to children whose parent or carer has worked at sea, including those from the fishing industry, Royal Navy, Merchant Navy, inland waterways and offshore sectors.
Guests were welcomed by CEO Natasha Barley, who highlighted the vital role supporters play in enabling the charity to respond when families face financial hardship, illness, bereavement and crisis. During the ceremony, the Princess Royal presented plaques to the charity’s corporate partners, recognising the significant role they play in helping the organisation reach more families and secure its long-term future. Those recognised included representatives from Boluda Towage; Rix Shipping; Kingston Family Law; Adams & Green; Andrew Marr International; James Legal; John Good Group; Diony; St Stephen’s Shopping Centre; CADIS; HFR Solutions; North Atlantic Fishing Company and Ashcourt Group.
Special recognition awards were also presented to Williamsons Solicitors and Smales in acknowledgement of their outstanding contribution to the charity. Williamsons Solicitors were recognised for their decades-long support of Sports Lunch Hull, the charity’s flagship fundraising event, while Smales received an award for raising over £30k for the charity in their first year of support.
The charity also recognised the invaluable contribution of its major funders, including Greenwich Hospital; Trinity House; the Royal Navy and Royal Marines Charity and The Seafarers’ Charity. A special award was presented to David Garness, managing director of Garness Jones, in recognition of his long-standing support and advocacy for the charity.
One of the most poignant moments of the day saw the launch of the Martin Needler Family Award, introduced in memory of Martin Needler BEM, who dedicated more than 40 years of service to Sailors’ Children’s Society as a trustee, chairman, vice-president and passionate supporter. Created to recognise resilience, determination and the strength of family, the inaugural awards were presented to two families currently supported by the charity.
Kat and her son, Theo, were recognised for the remarkable progress they have made. With support from the charity, Kat has overcome significant social anxiety, rebuilt her confidence, returned to employment and continued to provide a loving and supportive environment for Theo throughout.
Receiving the award, Theo said: “I was really excited and a little bit nervous about today, but I was happy to meet everyone. I’m really proud of my mum and everything she has done.”
Brendan and Sol also received the award in recognition of their resilience, positivity and the strong bond they share as father and son. Following their participation in a Sailors’ Children’s Society sailing challenge aboard the CatZero vessel, they became role models for other families on the programme, demonstrating kindness, encouragement and determination while navigating life’s challenges together.
Receiving the award, Sol said: “It was a real surprise to receive the award. The sailing trip and the support we’ve had from Sailors’ Children’s Society has given us opportunities we never thought we’d have. It was really special to be recognised and to share the day with so many other families and supporters.
“I hope we can support the charity in the future as well. It’s really nice being part of the Sailors’ Children’s Society family.”
The ceremony concluded with the Lifetime Contribution Awards presented to David Edmunds, Dr John Howarth and Charles Wood, 3rd Earl of Halifax. Lord Halifax has served as president of Sailors’ Children’s Society since 1980, providing decades of leadership, continuity and support to the charity.
Natasha said: “A Sea of Thanks was an opportunity to recognise the extraordinary people, businesses, funders and families who make our work possible. Every person in the room has played a part in helping children and families from seafaring backgrounds navigate some of life’s most difficult challenges.
“We were honoured that Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal, who has served as patron of Sailors’ Children’s Society since 2003, joined us for this special occasion and helped us celebrate the impact that can be achieved when charities, businesses and communities come together with a shared purpose. The introduction of the Martin Needler Family Award was particularly meaningful.
“Martin dedicated so much of his life to the charity, and it felt fitting to honour families who embody the resilience, determination and hope that he cared so deeply about.” Following the awards ceremony, guests attended a reception and lunch in the grounds of Hotham Hall, celebrating the charity’s rich heritage and the partnerships that continue to shape its future.
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