Wetwheels opens up new opportunities for young people on the water

WetWheels invites CCF along on a fishing trip with a local Truro school to see how our funding is making a positive impact on young people in Cornwall.

Earlier in May, Amy, Marketing Officer at CCF, was joined by a photography student from Falmouth University, to experience first-hand the incredible work of Wetwheels during a fishing trip with a local EHCP school.

Led by David Rogers from Wetwheels, the group headed out onto the water in glorious sunshine for a morning of fishing, connection and new experiences. While the fish proved a little elusive, the smiles and laughter on board told a far more important story.

For the young people taking part, many of whom require additional support within education, opportunities like this are invaluable. Beyond the classroom, these experiences help build confidence, encourage social connection and provide meaningful sensory engagement in a safe and supportive environment.

Wetwheels is transforming access to the water for disabled and disadvantaged people of all ages, including those with profound and complex impairments. Through fully wheelchair-accessible boats and adapted controls, participants are not simply passengers, they are active participants, with the opportunity to steer the vessel, learn new skills and experience the freedom of being out at sea.

Research from Wetwheels shows that more than 80 per cent of participants have never previously experienced open water. By removing barriers and creating inclusive opportunities, the charity is helping people discover new independence, broaden aspirations and improve wellbeing.

Seeing the pure joy on the faces of the young people throughout the trip was a powerful reminder of the importance of accessible community experiences. These moments matter. Creating memories, building confidence and opening up opportunities that many young people may otherwise never have the chance to experience.

By 2027, Wetwheels aims to support 15,000 people every year across the UK, continuing their mission to ensure more disabled and disadvantaged people can access the water, challenge perceptions and discover what is possible.

We are extremely proud to have been able to support WetWheels in the past and are very grateful to have been invited out on this trip to cement how incredibly important funding from CCF is.

If you wish to support charities like WetWheels, you can donate here.

Thank you to WetWheels for this opportunity and to Falmouth University for supporting our work.