A youth-led marine conservation group from the Highlands has secured a major funding award to supercharge their efforts to protect the sea.
Ullapool Sea Savers, based in the remote north-west of Scotland, has been chosen as one of 100 projects across the UK to receive support from the Young Gamechangers Fund.
The £4.5 million initiative backs youth-driven projects tackling big issues from the ground up.
Run entirely by children and teens aged 7 to 17, Ullapool Sea Savers are fiercely passionate about preserving the marine life around the Wester Ross Marine Protected Area.
From campaigning to keep harmful waste out of local drains to setting out on boat missions to monitor and explore their coastline, this group of young environmentalists is not afraid to get stuck in.
Their work doesn’t stop at saving sea creatures—it also builds confidence, community, and better mental health for young people living in rural areas.
Now, with the fresh injection of funding, the group can build on their momentum with more structure and safety in place.
The grant will fund vital adult support roles, including youth workers and boat safety officers, allowing young ideas to flourish while keeping everyone safe on land and sea.
Twelve-year-old Abbie, who led the application, said the funding will make all the difference for the growing team.
She said they’re already brimming with ideas and eager to show the public why protecting the sea is worth it.
“People protect what they love – and we show people what there is to love about the sea,” she said.
The group prides itself on being inclusive, offering every activity free of charge to ensure no child is left out due to cost.
Their approach blends education, action, and community involvement in a way that makes a real splash both locally and nationally.
Backed by the Co-op Foundation, Co-op, the #iwill movement, Restless Development and Global Fund for Children, the Young Gamechangers Fund is all about putting power into young hands.
This year’s projects span everything from climate action and mental health to education reform and community empowerment.
Ullapool Sea Savers are flying the flag for Highland youth activism, proving that no one is too young—or too remote—to make a difference.
With their new support, these young champions of the sea are ready to dive even deeper into their mission.
