Dolphins and whales face a wide range of threats across the globe – from capture and captivity to entanglement in fishing gear, whaling, vessel strikes, and increasing ocean pollution- and our work exists to challenge and change that.
Marine Connection tackles these challenges through international advocacy, policy and legislative change, government engagement, investigative work, and public education. By working with communities, decision-makers, and partner organisations around the world, we strive to create lasting protections for cetaceans wherever they are found.
Our roots are in campaigning for an end to captivity in the UK, and Marine Connection has a long history of driving change and influencing outcomes. Thanks to the tireless efforts of many campaigners – including our founders, Margaux Dodds and Liz Sandeman – the last dolphinaria in the UK closed in the early 1990s. Today, we build on that legacy by supporting and inspiring similar progress internationally.
Our work is not just about awareness – it’s about results.
Our vision is a world without suffering for dolphins and whales, where people and cetaceans coexist in harmony across thriving, healthy oceans. Our mission is to take action to end their exploitation and harm, protect dolphins and whales in the wild and in captivity, safeguard the marine environments they depend on, and address the root causes of cruelty, captivity, and ocean degradation so these remarkable beings can live freely and flourish for generations to come.
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Charity Co-Founders
Margaux Dodds
Liz Sandeman
Patron
David Essex OBE
Trustees
Alan Knight OBE
President of International Animal Rescue, a UK-based organisation helping to end the suffering of animals, including bears, orangutans and other primates, Alan has worked in animal welfare for over 40 years. His passion for diving and love of marine mammals led to him being a founding member of British Divers Marine Life Rescue (BDMLR) of which he is currently Chairman.
Liz Varney
Director and founder of Catastrophes Cat Rescue, a sanctuary providing love and much-needed shelter to unwanted cats, Liz also operates vital neutering programs on stray cat populations in the UK and overseas. Involved in animal welfare since the 1970s, Liz and her team provide each cat in their care with the best possible treatment and in recognition of her dedication and services was given an International Fund for Animal Welfare award.
Rachel Sharp
Rachel has had a long-standing, prestigious career working for the Wildlife Trusts in both Wales and England. Currently CEO of Wildlife Trusts Wales, an umbrella body for the six local Wildlife Trusts which collectively manage over 200 nature reserves. With a passion for the outdoors and wildlife, Rachel has also been an external advisor to Wales Environment Link and a group member of the Welsh Water Independent Advisory Panel.
