Wetwheels is a charity that provides the opportunity for disabled and disadvantaged people from coastal communities to get afloat. Boating, in its many forms, remains one of the UK’s most popular recreational activities enjoyed by people of all abilities and all ages. However, those with a disability have fewer locations where they can access the water. The barriers to participation are most commonly inaccessible shore-side facilities, inaccessible vessels and lack of trained volunteers.

Whilst sailing is one way to access the water, many disabled people are unable to board a sailing vessel owing to the nature of their disability. Wetwheels allows them to enjoy the social inclusion and health benefits to be gained from being afloat and compliments existing sailing opportunities.

Working with local charities, groups, schools, residential care homes, veterans and SEND settings, Wetwheels Cymru will deliver barrier-free boating experiences for all disabled people in south Wales.

The bespoke design makes wheelchair access and security simple, the open deck layout ensures safety and comfort for all participants. Parents and carers will also benefit from Wetwheels as it gives them valuable respite during trips. We will also work with national charities that cater for injured service personnel like Battle Back. We believe that Wetwheels Cymru is one of the widest-reaching and beneficial projects in Wales for a number of years.

Critical to the long-term success of Wetwheels Cymru is the operational model. We aim to establish a Community Interest Company (CIC) with independent directors. Key to the successful operation of our vessel is good administration and financial management.