Wetwheels Foundation:
– Registered charity in England and Wales (1148600) and Scotland (SC051304)
– Patron: HRH The Princess Royal
– Vision: Ensure safe, barrier-free water access for all
– Mission: Provide unique water access for disabled and disadvantaged
– Goals: Support 12,000 people annually by 2026
Wetwheels Experience:
– Active participation for increased confidence and wellbeing
– Full wheelchair access to boats with adapted controls
– Opportunity for steering and seamanship learning
– Over 80% of participants new to open water experiences
– Inspiring organization breaking barriers and fostering independence
Wetwheels Journey:
– Founded by Geoff Holt MBE
– Multiple boat locations across the UK
– Local operators as social enterprises
– Fully trained skippers and crew
– Certified to MCA Cat. 3 standards for safety
Trustees:
– Paul Strzelecki, marine industry veteran
– Laura Trapnell, Partner at Trethowans and water enthusiast
– Gemma Osgood, clinical negligence solicitor and competitive sailor
– Trevor Phillips, corporate communications specialist and sailor
– Geoff Holt MBE DL, founder and disability advocate
Leadership Profiles:
– David Parkinson:
– Senior Associate Trainer for British Dyslexia Association
– National Disability Awareness Trainer for RYA Sailability
– 18 years of experience in various sectors
– Provided training for charity chief executives and law enforcement
– Experienced in commercial voiceovers and audiobook recordings for Audible.com
– Alan Cummings:
– Seasoned Royal Navy officer and RYA Yachtmaster
– Extensive leadership, maritime, SAR, and aviation experience
– Versed in defense and international relations
– Previously Head of Operations in a maritime headquarters
– Coordinated complex operational programs along the South Coast of England