With more and more British young people taking gap years and travelling to far-flung places all over the world, a York 
based charity are raising awareness of the need for young adventurers to stay safe. This was the subject of a talk at a York school today.
Sixth Form pupils at St Peter's School in Clifton were given the lecture by Richard Stuttle, Founder and Director of Caroline's Rainbow Foundation.
Richard spoke about the formation of the charity, its aims and its work.
He has travelled the world extensively since he was a 17-year old student and believes there is no greater way to share great experiences and meet new people.
Whatever you have seen on TV, he says, “to be there in the moment and experience it for yourself is priceless.”
Caroline's Rainbow Foundation was formed to raise awareness of the importance of safe travel to young people, whether they are going abroad for independent travel, gap year placements, organised trips or just making plans to visit a different country.
The charity was formed in memory of Caroline Ann Stuttle, a teenager who died whilst travelling in Australia in 2002. This was the catalyst for her brother Richard to form the Foundation.
He admitted to being an adrenaline junkie himself – diving and white water rafting being amongst his adventures – which only emphasised the importance of evaluating risk and knowing your environment.
In particular, the charity aims to provide information about safety abroad and encourage young people to recognise and prioritise life's values, wherever they may be in the world. They work with many organisations including the Foreign Office.
Ben Fuller, Head of Politics at St Peter's, said: "Richard had great stories to tell, really encouraging our students to get out and see the world. It gave them something to look towards once this term’s revision and exams are completed. At the same time he passed on essential and practical advice to make our travels safe and fun.”