The SFTD board of directors met last week for the first time since our AGM last month and it was also the first meeting with new Chairman Carole at the helm.
Bobby and Jean were off-island and sent their apologies.
Secretary Chris reported that the accounts for the year ended 31st March 2025 have been signed and filed with the charities register. If anyone would like a copy please email
There was no finance update at the meeting as treasurer Jean is away.
Paul is currently working to streamline our banking facilities to improve efficiency.
Under Sailing matters, a discussion took place about solutions to the current shortage of skippers and mates which is impacting on our sailing activity. Further work on this will be undertaken outside the meeting.
We also discussed further the options regarding a possible boat replacement which of course would be a huge undertaking for the charity. Chris has identified a good starting point which will involve a professional survey of Pride of Man III for coding purposes.
Training officer Richard is planning to recommence the MOB ( man overboard) recovery training. This will restart when the SOP ( standard operating procedure) has been approved by the IOM Coastguard for collaborative training with the RNLI and when the new recovery net has been positioned and fixed on deck.
Richard DG gave an update on corporate fundraising activity and plans to make presentations to several potential partners. He will be attending a bake sale at Nedgroup Investments next month as they have generously chosen Sailing for the Disabled as the recipient of monies raised, just as they did last year. Richard is looking for an enabled member who would like to accompany him- if interested please contact him directly.
Carole gave feedback from the Fundraising & Engagement committee meeting that was held last week. The 100 Club draws are happening regularly again thanks to the efforts of Karen Leiserach- it’s getting a reboot next year so watch out for more news on this.
Dawn and Diane worked hard earlier this year to develop a strategic plan for this group and are now revisiting it for the year ahead.
This year our Christmas coffee morning will take place at Douglas Bay Yacht Club on Saturday 29th November 1000-1300hrs. Keep an eye out for the great posters designed by our newest committee member Chris!