UKSA announces Youth and Mental Health Ambassador

Cowes-based charity, UKSA, has announced British yachtswoman, Dee Caffari, MBE, as its Youth and Mental Health Ambassador, a newly-created role.

The first woman to sail single-handed around the world in both directions, Dee is also the only woman to have sailed non-stop around the world a total of three times. In her new role she will seek to raise awareness and find solutions to help young people whose mental health has been affected by falling below the poverty line, spending less time outdoors, school closures and reduced employment prospects. It follows the charity and world-leading maritime training provider’s first public appeal for support to improve mental health in young people in December.

Dee said: “The last two years have been challenging for everyone. Uncertainty, financial concerns and less group activity have all taken a toll on mental health. Resilience is built up over time as a result of life experiences. Although with the pandemic we were all in the same storm, we weren’t all in the same boat facing that storm and it has been particularly difficult for the younger generation. I hope that I will be able to facilitate confidence in our young people to ensure our future generations can thrive. Being out in the elements facing the forces of mother nature, you soon realise that everyone is equal. She doesn’t care about your gender, race, religion or socio-economic background. Agile thinking, adaptability, teamwork and collaboration are all required, and these are all skills that are transferable into everyday life.”

UKSA’s CEO, Ben Willows, said: “UKSA has had a partnership with Dee for many years but, as we further our cause to make a difference to young people and provide opportunities many are not offered, having Dee in this role will be invaluable, particularly as a former teacher.”