The Maritime Volunteer service was registered as a UK charity on 1st April 1994. The aim is to;advance the education and training of our members and the public in all aspects of maritime skills and the protection and preservation of life and property primarily, but not exclusively, within the maritime environment. It has more than 20 Units around the country, with over 400 members providing training towards nationally and internationally recognized standards for marine qualifications whilst serving local communities especially in times of need or emergency.

Originally the Royal Navy Mine Watching Service between 1952 to 1963 was a civilian service administered by the royal navy under admiralty control. This was superseded, from 1963 until 1994, by the Royal Naval Auxiliary Service which was part of the Admiralty ferry crews association. The MVS was registered as a charity in 1994 and inheriting the ethos of the Royal Navy Auxiliary service having been disbanded.

One of the main objectives of the MVS charity institution is to advance the education and training of the members of the charity and the general public in all aspects of marine and communication skills and knowledge. In this respect a program of learning has been developed and called the 'Pathway'. The criteria is divided into modules reflecting the level of knowledge needed. To see more detail select TRAINING

The original uniform for MVS members was based on that of the Royal Navy. A less formal uniform given to new members started in 2021 so it is possible that you will see a mix of old and new uniform styles. There are 2 categories for wear firstly a formal uniform used for attending the unit and a general working rig. New members are provided with a Cap, Jumper, short sleeve top, and a waterproof jacket. To complete the uniform requirements due to financial restraints members are asked to provide for themselves with black trousers for unit visits, black trousers for working, white shirt and black boots. Optional items to consider buying are a life jacket and a knife.

Joining the MVS provides numerous opportunities for personal development and community activity. Members can start or improve their nautical skills which in turn can then be shared with other members or the general public. It provides a relaxed environment and comradely as part of a like-minded team with opportunities for an enjoyable experience on the water and in the classroom. With more older members there is access to years of combined knowledge and experience. The MVS can provide a worthwhile activity benefiting the local community by helping to improve safety at sea for those having or intending to own a boat. At a time of marked decline in public awareness of all things maritime when we were always known as a seagoing nation the MVS holds the candle to our historic past. Joining the MVS introduces you to like-minded persons there to help you.

It is great that you are interested in our charity. So we can help to guide you deciding what branch of our service you would best suitable please tell us about yourself. The personal details could include some or all of the following topics if you are happy to let us know. First the name you like to be known as. If you have or had an occupation that you feel is relevant to a mainly focused marine environment this would be helpful but not necessary to join. Any formal qualifications you have that might be helpful to the charity or help towards your personal development. If you have any hobbies there may well be, within the Unit you join, someone with similar interests that we can introduce you to them. Of course any boating experience will give you a head start and may alleviate some of the basic training required before going afloat. Lastly, many of our volunteers have had previous volunteering experience with other charities perhaps you have as well.

To be a member of any grade you must be aged 18 or over. There is no upper age limit, providing you are fit to carry out the duties for which you have volunteered. The following categories of membership are as follows. • List A – Operational. • List B – Professional & Technical. • List O – Operational Support. • List S – Unit Friends & Supporters • List T – Temporary • List C – Corporate More information please contact HQ e-Mail: hq@mvs.org.uk Tel: 01925 563620 Maritime Volunteer Service Dallam Court. Dallam Lane, Warrington, WA2 7LT

Royal Patron and Honorary Commodore HRH Prince Michael of Kent GCVO KStJ

President The Rt Hon. The Lord West of Spithead GCB DSC PC

All MVS activities must comply with a range of legal regulations, specifically, • Our Charities Articles of Association • The Merchant Shipping Act 1995 • The Health & Safety at Work Act 1974 • Risk Assessments. • Standard Operating Procedures • MVS Policies and Procedures

Like all companies and charities there are a multitude of policies and procedures that must be followed to ensure compliance with the law and the Charity Commission standards. On joining access is given to all members to download and read articles as shown in the examples below.