Sailing to Enhance Wellbeing Case Study
In 2017 we were delighted to be awarded £7000 from Awards for All Scotland to run 4 RYA Dinghy Level 1 courses to enhance the wellbeing of disadvantaged people in Scotland.
The primary aim of this project was to support care experienced people move towards a more positive future. This was achieved by improving the health, education, and employment chances of participants through sailing.
As well as developing the skills and confidence to sail a dinghy we focused developing soft skills. Skills which are portable, transferable, and valuable such as; self confidence, emotion regulation, stress management, persistence, patience and self growth.
Quotes from participants:
“It was the best thing I’ve ever done”
“I enjoyed watching the pupils laugh and enjoy themselves – this is not often seen in their environment”
“I was not sure I would enjoy it but I did – I had loads of fun”
“[I enjoyed] taking control of the boat myself and steering”
Who took part?
The majority of participants had experience of the Care System in Scotland and the rest came from a variety of backgrounds.
Why Sailing?
Sailing is a sport for all ages and abilities. It develops communication, focus, team building, leadership skills and confidence. The outdoor, social, and active nature of the sport improves physical and mental fitness, and develops participants’ awareness of the natural world. It is also a sport that many people continue to participate in for their whole life and can be done all over the world.
Contact Us
If you, or a group you work with are interested in seeing how watersports can support people to make a positive social difference in their lives, please contact Caroline by emailing caroline@portedgarwatersports.com or call 0131 319 1820
