Wetwheels Foundation sets £250,000 target to take more disabled people to sea

More disabled people than ever before are getting out on the water with Wetwheels Foundation, according to the charity. The registered charity supports a network of eight fully wheelchair-accessible powerboats operating across the UK, enabling disabled people and their families to get out to sea. Following what they describe as their strongest year to date, the charity has set a new target of raising £250,000 through a Three-Year Core Capacity Fund. It is calling on supporters to help strengthen the organisation, and says the aim is to build the executive capacity to sustain and grow its UK-wide operation and open up the water to many more disabled people.

The national Foundation provides the direction, management and resources each Wetwheels operator needs, and the charity says it is what makes every Wetwheels experience possible. The Fund will invest in the people, systems and infrastructure needed for consistent delivery across all eight operators, and in developing new partnerships and sustainable income streams. It will also reduce the charity’s reliance on volunteer trustees and part-time individuals for fundraising, operational development and day-to-day direction, allowing greater focus on strategy and oversight.

In 2024-25, Wetwheels delivered 1,404 inclusive experiences for more than 11,000 participants. Of those on board, 54% were experiencing open water for the very first time, and 1,826 wheelchair users took part. Volunteers and crews gave more than 2,500 hours. The charity says it now needs greater central capacity to carry this momentum forward and meet growing demand.

Wetwheels says every contribution makes a difference.

• Donations: a donation helps protect the national Foundation behind every Wetwheels operator across the UK, funding leadership, safety, training, management and infrastructure.
• Fundraising events: supporters can organise their own events, from sailing challenges and swims to cycling events, club fundraisers or community activities.
• Partnerships: businesses, clubs and organisations looking for a cause to champion can partner with Wetwheels Foundation, which describes itself as one of the UK’s leading accessible boating charities.
• Gifts in wills: individuals can also make a donation today or remember the Foundation in their will.

By contributing to the £250,000 Three-Year Core Capacity Fund, supporters can help protect what Wetwheels Foundation has built and give the charity the capacity to reach many more disabled people. As the charity puts it, the sea should be for everyone, and no one should be left watching from the shore.