The charity is run by the 11 strong management committee, no-one being remunerated.  The team, naturally, has a bias towards marine professionals, and includes representatives from user groups, health & safety and Kent County Council Youth & Community.   

Our policy is that everyone associated with KVB, which is a youth orientated venture, must undergo an Enhanced Criminal Records Bureau check.

KVB provides a skipper and cook/second hand to man the barge, and in addition 2 team leaders from the user group are in charge of the youngsters.  At the moment there is only one authorised skipper, but French Permis Plaisancier examinations will be taken in 2005 to allow more skippers to be in charge.

New Petra is equipped with a local mobile telephone for added safety and security.  Contact with a local shipyard provides technical backup in the event of breakdown and the barge undergoes planned maintenance.

Kent Venture Boat is committed to deliver the opportunity for young persons to undertake a unique residential, international and educational experience and welcomes feedback.

                 CONCLUSIONS

Teachers and leaders in charge of youth groups are reluctant to organise and take youngsters on residential trips, in the UK or abroad, because of fear of litigation.  Unless this mind set changes, or the Government legislates to protect leaders, our bookings will probably not
increase significantly.

To counter this KVB has, with the consent of the Charity Commissioners,  organised golf breaks and adult groups to help with funding.  These trips are popular, and offer value for money - but of course are charged at a premium to youth groups.  

Over the next 3 years usage by youth and adult groups will conservatively increase by about 3 groups each year.  This will enable KVB to become viable, and well funded.   See Finance

The management team is aware that New Petra is unique, and the concept and venture is valid.
Perhaps our marketing is poor.  We probably need the services of a professional - or at least more expertise within the committee.

In January 2002 it was clear there was insufficient funding to pay for the conversion in Stellendam, due to pledges not being fulfilled, the lottery refusing a grant and the lack of interest in a small charity from large organisations.

Instead of putting the conversion on hold, abandoning the project and losing the money already invested, a loan offer was accepted.  The interest shown by BBC South East - they were going to film our first group for their news programme and sent the footage to Blue Peter - possibly gave us a false sense of security.

KVB finally had to accept loans from 3 private individuals in order to complete New Petra.  The interest has built up over the years and now it is doubtful if the loans can be repaid from income.

We are looking for funding to pay off the debt and make the project viable.  Please contact us if you can help in any way - either with a grant or a suggestion of where to apply.  Thank You.