Wallingford Accessible Boat Club
Making the River Thames accessible for all
Wallingford Accessible Boat Club is dedicated to helping people feel happier, more independent, and more connected by offering welcoming, accessible boat trips on the River Thames.
The charity supports people of all ages with disabilities, long-term health conditions, and limited mobility, making it possible for them to enjoy time on the water in a safe and comfortable way.
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We rely entirely on the generous support of individuals, groups and organisations
A huge thanks to Clean Slate Solutions
A huge thanks to all our supporters whose help adds such great stability to our operation but one supporter in particular has gone above and beyond this year.
Community Champion, Sarah Eastwood, singing superstar
The story behind singing superstar Sarah Eastwood's involvement and support for Wallingford Accessible Boat Club.
Making the River Thames accessible for all
Our Mission
When we first conceived the charity in 2016, we would never have believed we could be where we are today - the progress we have made in such a short space of time is just remarkable.
Using a specially adapted, fully accessible Wheelyboat, we give hundreds of people of all ages, including wheelchair users and those who find getting around more difficult, the chance to experience the River Thames in a way that might not otherwise be possible.
Our amazing team of friendly, fully trained volunteers run the trips, which are free for individuals, families, carers, and community or care groups.
Our Vision
These outings offer more than just a trip on the water. Our purpose-built Wheelyboat, WOW-one enables those less mobile, including wheelchair users, to board safely, travel independently, and even take the helm.
Based on the amazing feedback we receive each season, we know that our river trips help reduce feelings of isolation, boost confidence, support mental and emotional wellbeing, and create opportunities to relax and enjoy nature in beautiful surroundings.
By removing barriers and making the river accessible to more people, the charity helps strengthen community connections and improves quality of life for those who need it most.
The King’s Award for Voluntary Service
Wallingford Accessible Boat Club has received a Nomination for the highest award in the country for voluntary groups, the Kings Award for Voluntary Service (KAVS), equivalent to an MBE for an individual.
John Jenkins MBE, WABC Chairman, explained: "We are all absolutely thrilled to have been recognised for what we do and the difference we make to people’s lives. I believe we were a strong candidate for the KAVS award. While we know the national selection process is highly competitive, we take immense pride in the respect and admiration we’ve earned across our local community, throughout Oxfordshire, with the Lieutenancy and beyond."
Check out our latest news
Nature watch
We are truly blessed to have access to such a beautiful stretch of the River Thames, alive with a wonderful variety of flora and fauna.
Fundraising news
Thank you so much to all our passengers who made a donation of appreciation for our river trips this season.
WABC volunteers honoured
We are incredibly proud of our wonderful team of volunteers who give their time and energy to WABC.
We rely entirely on the kindness and generosity of individuals, groups, and organisations
