Sailability @ Whitefriars
Lizzie, a Funding Relationship Manager at Barnwood, recently caught up with Sailability @ Whitefriars, a Funded Partner that offers accessible and inclusive sailing. This is where we learnt the story of David, the Chair of the charity, whose personal experience has shaped its development.
David has always lived an active life and especially enjoys water sports. He regularly competes in sailing races, achieving national wins and placing in the top 5 internationally. But in 1999, a high-level spinal cord injurychanged everything, bringing his sporting life to an abrupt stop.
Keen to stay active, David searched for accessible ways to enjoy sport again. He was introduced to a sailing course in the Lake District, which led to him discovering the Whitefriars Sailing Club in Gloucestershire. The club had the equipment and expertise to support his needs, enabling him to sail independently using adapted hand controls. This experience inspired him to help others discover the joy of water sports.
In 2016, David became Chair of Sailability @ Whitefriars and worked with volunteers and partner organisations to expand access to sailing for disabled people in a safe and supportive environment and later, Sailability @ Whitefriars became a registered charity.
With funding from Barnwood Trust, Sailability @ Whitefriars has expanded its operations – providing qualified instructors, improved facilities, and investing in specialist equipment such as safety boats and hoists. These resources have enabled people with a range of disabilities to participate in sailing and compete on equal terms with others, with many wanting to develop their skills further and progress into competitive racing.
David continues to serve as Chair of Trustees where he is focused on developing inclusive and accessible sailing so that the sailors are part of the wider sailing community. He says,
“It gives me huge pleasure to see the opportunities and enjoyment that Sailability @ Whitefriars gives people. It can give so much to people who have such huge challenges in their lives. As a disabled person myself, it has brought so much sense of purpose into my life, it has been very ‘normalising’ to be part of an organisation where I have a role and respect.“
Looking ahead to 2026, David plans to expand the racing team, creating pathways to participate in national and international competitions, and grow the team – enabling even more disabled people in Gloucestershire to learn a new skill, become part of a community and live active, fulfilling lives.
