Funding

Introduction

Operation Seabird is powered by community spirit and the generous support of our partners. From conservation charities to government agencies and local groups, these collaborations ensure our coasts get the care they deserve. We believe in working together, sharing knowledge, resources and funding, to amplify our impact for wildlife and communities.

Thank You to Our Funders

We are proud to share that the creation of our new online hub has been co-funded by our valued partners and funders. On behalf of Operation Seabird and our wider guardianship networks, we extend heartfelt thanks to Natural England, BDMLR, NWCU, Sea-Changers, Seal Research Trust and Whale and Dolphin Conservation (WDC).

Their collective support has enabled us to build a digital home that empowers communities, strengthens stewardship and ensures people and wildlife can share UK blue spaces responsibly. Together, we are safeguarding coasts, seas and estuaries for generations to come.

Our Funding Partners

Natural England

Natural England is the government’s adviser on the natural environment, working to protect England’s biodiversity and landscapes. They provide statutory advice, designate protected sites and fund conservation projects that strengthen ecosystem resilience and community stewardship.

Sea-Changers

Sea-Changers is a charity responding to a sea crisis. They raise money for marine conservation in the UK through their community of Sea-Changer businesses and individuals, distributing grants to projects like ours that protect our blue spaces.

British Divers Marine Life Rescue (BDMLR)

BDMLR is a charity dedicated to the rescue and rehabilitation of marine animals, including stranded whales, dolphins, seals and seabirds. Their trained volunteer network delivers rapid response, welfare care and public training to ensure distressed wildlife receives expert help. They also provide co-funding and volunteer training support.

Seal Research Trust

The Seal Research Trust conducts vital research and monitoring of seal populations, studying behaviour, habitat use and human impacts. They also deliver education programmes for schools and communities, raising awareness of seal conservation and responsible coastal practices. They support us with seasonal monitoring, behavioural research and public engagement.

Whale and Dolphin Conservation (WDC)

WDC is the leading global charity dedicated to the protection of whales and dolphins. Through science, advocacy and education, they safeguard cetaceans from threats such as disturbance, climate change and habitat loss, while promoting responsible viewing practices at sea. They provide cetacean science, sightings networks and best practice guidance.

National Wildlife Crime Unit (NWCU)

The NWCU is a specialist UK police unit tackling wildlife crime. They provide intelligence, investigative support and enforcement collaboration to protect vulnerable species. Their work deters deliberate harm and ensures offences against wildlife are properly investigated.

Crowdfunder Supporters

Individuals contributing directly to Operation Seabird’s expansion.

Local Councils and Statutory Agencies

Co-funding signage, patrols and community engagement.

Core & Founding Partners

Flamborough Head European Marine Site Project Management Scheme

Founding coordination body, conservation and visitor management.

Scarborough Borough Council

Signage, enforcement and community stewardship.

East Riding of Yorkshire Council

Coastal governance and public engagement.

North Yorkshire Police & Humberside Police

Enforcement partners deterring wildlife disturbance.

Marine Management Organisation (MMO)

Statutory regulation of marine activity.

RSPCA & RSPB

National charities leading welfare and habitat protection.

National Wildlife Crime Unit

enforcement intelligence and deterrence.

Yorkshire Wildlife Trust

Regional charity partner delivering habitat protection, public engagement and coastal guardianship.

Wider Guardianship Networks

Operation Seabird works with guardianship networks across the UK, including

Scotland

Police Scotland, NatureScot, local councils and custodians.

Northern Ireland

DAERA, local councils and harbour authorities.

Wales

Welsh Government, Natural Resources Wales, Wildlife Trusts of South & West Wales (Operation Seabird Cymru).

Kent

Kent Wildlife Trust, Thanet District Council, Bird Wise East Kent.

South West England

Cornwall Seal Group Research Trust, Cornwall Wildlife Trust.

Additional Partners

Wildlife groups across UK shores and estuaries, harbour authorities, DEFRA, HM Coastguard, leisure and tourism operators, personal watercraft users, and individual members of the public, everyday guardians enjoying the health benefits of nature while sharing space responsibly.

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Join the Alliance

We’re always looking to build new relationships that help protect our blue spaces. Whether you’re a community group, a business or a funder interested in marine conservation, we’d love to collaborate

We also welcome in-kind support and expertise. Let’s work together to keep our coasts thriving.

Get in Touch

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Get Involved

Be part of a growing national movement that protects our coasts, estuaries, and blue spaces through education, guardianship, and collective action. Every contribution — time, energy, or funding — helps us create safer shores for wildlife and more connected communities across the UK.