Boat trips funded by HIWCF have benefited many people including those with visual impairments
Several people with visual impairments were among the many island residents who enjoyed boat trips organised by Cowes Sailability Club this summer. The excursions on a motor catamaran enabled blind and partially-sighted people to have a range of new sensory experiences, from feeling sea spray on their faces to hearing the sounds of the water lapping around the boat.
Kate Morton who has a severe visual impairment took part in two trips, along with her mum Joanne and guide dog Tammy.
“It was so peaceful and the movement of the boat helped Kate to relax,” says Joanne Morton. “Kate cannot see the sea, but being on the boat heightened her other senses and she enjoyed the noise of the water, the feel of the wind in her face and even the smell of the boat’s engine. In one hour on the water, she had a lot of sensory experiences and really enjoyed it.”
Joanne continues: “Cowes Sailability Club’s volunteers were very welcoming and explained things very clearly and calmly to Kate, which made it stress-free for us both. As Kate’s carer, I benefited as well, as I got to enjoy an exciting day out with Kate. It was a treat for me too.”
Cowes Sailability Club charted the wheelchair-accessible motorboat Wetwheels Hamble for several excursions during the summer, with funding from the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Community Foundation (HIWCF), an independent charitable foundation specialising in building funds and awarding grants on behalf of donors and fund holders. HIWCF awarded Cowes Sailability Club £2,600.00 for six days’ charter hire, as well as replacement life jackets.
“We are so grateful to HIWCF for its continued support,” says Trish Rooke, Fundraising Officer at Cowes Sailability Club. “We have been able to organise trips for lots of local people and support groups this year.”
She adds, “It has been especially lovely this year to be able to offer trips for many people with visual impairments. Often it is hard for people who are blind or partially-sighted to take part in new activities, and we are delighted to be able to help make boating accessible to everyone.”