We have reaffirmed our near decade-long support for the international development charity, Vine Trust by pledging our continued backing as the charity celebrated its 40th Anniversary of life-saving work.
On Friday 26 September, a special dinner was hosted at our Rosyth site in the presence of Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal, the Patron of Vine Trust. The evening honoured the charity’s vast achievements to date – including the delivery of almost 2.5 million medical and dental consultations in Tanzania and Peru and the construction of 161 homes in remote Tanzanian communities.
Signing a Memorandum of Understanding on the evening, together with Vine Trust, we further strengthened our relationship as we look forward to future projects together.
Our support of Vine Trust has included outfitting its medical vessel, MV Forth Hope in 2017 and the conversion of a former Royal Navy patrol vessel, now MV Lady Jean, in 2024. Both ships currently deliver essential healthcare services to millions of people in remote communities in Tanzania and Peru.
Beyond converting and transforming vessels, our employees have participated in Vine Trust community initiatives, reflecting our deep commitment to volunteering and global citizenship. Between 2017 and 2019, around 100 colleagues joined expeditions to Tanzania – working on development projects including the construction of homes for vulnerable families.
Looking ahead, plans are already underway for further Babcock volunteer expeditions to Tanzania, alongside practical support to provide more help and advance the charity’s mission.
David Lockwood, Chief Executive, Babcock, who with his wife, joined an expedition to Tanzania in early 2025, said:
“It was a real privilege to welcome Her Royal Highness to Rosyth as Patron of the Vine Trust, where we reflected on the charity’s life-saving achievements. Babcock is incredibly proud to continue to strengthen our role in the charity’s vital work.
“I have seen first-hand the transformative impact of Vine Trust’s mission, making a positive impact in communities where their specialist care is needed most.”
Kenny Holt, Chief Executive, Vine Trust, said:
“As Vine Trust marks 40 years, we’re proud of what’s been achieved through the compassion and commitment of so many. But this is not the end of the journey — it’s a new chapter. Our growing relationship with Babcock is an exciting part of that future, enabling us to expand our impact and continue connecting people to change lives, in communities where the need remains great.”
Pictured: Kenneth Holt, Chief Executive, Vine Trust, Dr Clair Bawn, Chair, Vine Trust, and David Lockwood, Chief Executive, Babcock.