Each Unit has conducted risk assessments for the activities it is likely to engage in or may undertake. These assessments are compiled in a manual that is accessible to everyone. These risk assessments are also documented in a Risk Register, which you are required to sign to acknowledge that you have read and agree with them. The risk assessments are regularly reviewed and updated as activities evolve, or new ones are introduced. It is the responsibility of every Volunteer to report any potential or existing hazards that could pose a risk to members or the public to the Health & Safety Representative or the Head of Unit.

The MVS charity aims to; advance the education and training of our members and the public in all aspects of maritime skills also the protection and preservation of life and property primarily, but not exclusively, within the maritime environment. To meet these responsibilities, the charity must comply with various legal requirements from Charity Articles of Association. The Merchant Shipping Act 1995. The Health & Safety at Work Act 1974. Code of safe working practices for merchant seafarers 2025. Upon joining, you agreed to follow the established policies and procedures—especially those related to health, safety, and training, and to sign the MVS Volunteer Code of Conduct.

The level of training required to enhance your knowledge and skills in navigation and seamanship will vary based on your previous seagoing experience and any maritime qualifications you may hold. For individuals starting without any background knowledge, the progression will follow the outline presented on the slide. Those who can demonstrate relevant knowledge may request to forego certain stages, although every new member is required to complete the Induction training.

Each Unit will have vessel(s) and shore-based premises to use for training. These will vary depending on the number of members and available of moorings for vessels. As a charity we are limited in what we can provide to members. Any donations of training materials is always welcome.

Managing a charity focused on the marine environment requires working closely with various authorities, organizations, and businesses involved in maritime matters, which you should be familiar with. These include, but are not limited to, the following. International Maritime Agency, Maritime Coastguard Agency, Marine Accident Investigation Branch, Civil Aviation Authority, Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, UK Civil Contingencies Act 2004, Royal National Lifeboat Institution, District and local councils for Harbour Board, Marinas, Boat yards, Chandlers etc. Further information about the individual regulatory bodies will be provided later in the training program.

Classroom sessions are generally held once a week in the evening and last around two hours. Practical boat handling exercises depend on weather and tidal conditions, so their scheduling is determined on a weekly basis. These exercises can include harbour patrols, navigation chart-work, daytime and nighttime passages, as well as man-overboard, fire and abandon ship drills among other activities. As a member, you have agreed to this training format and are willing to participate fully in all components.

The website consists of two sections, a public and a member displayed by default. After registering with headquarters, you will receive a password to access this. It is an excellent resource for members to access current news, policies and procedures. The extra information available presented consists of Fundraising, Handbooks, Health & Safety, Insurances, Management & Financial, Articles of Association, Members Shop, MVS Forms, MVS Bulletins, National & Regional Contacts, Newsletters, Policies & Procedures, Publicity & Advertising Material, Resilience Advice, Training Material, MVS Events: Diary and Vacancies