Active Thames grants to boost watersports

Watersports on the Thames, London’s canals and other inland waterways are set for a boost with grants of up to £5,000 being made available as part of a new programme, Active Thames, led by the Port of London Authority.

The launch of the fund follows a summer survey, where those involved in watersports voiced their desire to see improvements in diversity and inclusion, and high demand for coach and volunteer development.

More than 900 people responded to the survey run by the PLA with London Sport, to assess how best to develop watersports through Active Thames.

PLA sports manager, Jenny Cooper, said: “Active Thames is a key part of the Thames Vision, looking to maximise the social, economic, and environmental benefits of the river.

“Applications for projects to increase opportunities east of Tower Bridge are particularly welcome, given the potential for greater use of the river from the east of the capital to the outer estuary. We are also keen to improve participation by people from under-represented groups.”

Grant funding will focus on projects engaging under-represented groups, including people with disabilities or long-term health conditions, people from lower socio-economic groups, and ethnically diverse communities.

Applications for grants will be judged by a panel of Active Thames partners: Active Essex, Kent Sport, London Sport, British Canoeing, British Rowing, the Royal Yachting Association, Canal & River Trust, Thames Path National Trail and PLA.

The deadline for applications is 31 October 2021. Projects will only be considered if delivery can be well underway by end March.

Further details and enquiries can also be sent to: [email protected]