CanalAbility

03/09/2026

On this day last year we welcomed 10th Goffs Oak Girl Guides for an accessible canal boat experience!

If you're a Youth Group Leader why not get in touch.

www.canalability.org.uk/contact/

01/09/2026

On this day last year we welcomed residents and staff from in Harlow.

They said,

"A big thank you to CanalAbility for a fantastic trip along the river Stort on Friday. We had a wonderful time taking in the scenery and pointing out the wildlife and plants. The residents even experienced the workings of the lock while two of our group learnt how to steer the boat. Everyone thoroughly enjoyed being out in the fresh air eating a delicious picnic with a selection of yummy cakes and tea."

31/08/2026

Ever wondered what an accessible canal trip is really like?

A year ago, we welcomed DMD with George on board for a CanalAbility experience — and they captured some wonderful moments along the way.

If you’re disabled, or care for someone who is, take a look at their post and photos to see what a day on the water with us can be like.

🎥 We’ve also popped their video in the comments. 👇

Could you or someone you know enjoy a day on the water?

26/08/2026

On this day last year we welcomed our friends from Upside Down Sports Club, a Cambridgeshire charity creating inclusive sports sessions, activities and adventures for children and young people who are wheelchair users.

17/08/2026

⚡A very exciting milestone for Amply Accessible!

Our new accessible electric canal boat has now gone into the water for the first time at the boat builders Colecraft Engineering Ltd and is currently being trialled.

It’s brilliant to see her afloat after all the planning, fundraising and work that has gone into getting us to this stage.

There’s still plenty to do before she’s ready to join our fleet, but seeing her in the water makes it all feel very real!

Thanks to the team at Colecraft Boats for sharing this first look at her in the water!

14/08/2026

This may be useful to our followers 👇

West Essex families, don't miss this date!

If you're a parent or carer in Epping, Harlow or Uttlesford, our next SEND Local Offer Roadshow is a great opportunity to find out what support is available for your family.

Wednesday 4 November 2026 📍
9.30am to 12.30pm 🕤

Come along to:
• talk to professionals from local services
• discover support available in your area
• learn more about SEND support in education
• connect with parent groups and community organisations
• get answers to your questions

The event is free, informal and open to parents and carers of children and young people aged 0 to 25 with SEND.

Know someone in Epping, Harlow or Uttlesford who would find this helpful? Tag them in the comments and share this post.

To find out more, visit the link below 👇

13/08/2026

A quick CanalAbility update…

Parts of the River Stort are currently closed and, with water levels too low for our boats to operate safely, our trips are on hold for the moment.

But there’s plenty to look forward to!

Our new electric accessible boat is taking shape, and we’re getting everything ready for when we can get back out on the water.

It’s an exciting time for CanalAbility, and we’re looking forward to welcoming this new addition to our fleet and continuing to give disabled clients and their friends and family the chance to enjoy the River Stort.

If you’d like to support what we do, donations are always welcome and help us keep our boats, volunteers and accessible trips going.

https://www.totalgiving.co.uk/appeal/electricboat

12/08/2026

🌑 ECLIPSE DAY!

This evening we get to see something pretty special – the solar eclipse.

Around 90% of the Sun will be covered at its peak, so hopefully it will be quite a sight if the skies stay clear.

The eclipse reaches its maximum at around 7.12pm, and as the Sun will be quite low by then, somewhere with a good view towards the west should give you the best chance of seeing it.

If you're planning to watch, just remember to do it safely – never look directly at the Sun without proper eclipse glasses or another safe viewing method.

The Royal Observatory Greenwich has some useful information about the eclipse, including timings and how to watch it safely 👇

Royal Observatory Greenwich – Eclipse guide:-

https://www.rmg.co.uk/stories/space-astronomy/how-see-12-august-2026-partial-solar-eclipse

11/08/2026

☀️ Taking care in the heat

We’re all enjoying a bit of sunshine, but when temperatures get this high, it’s important to take extra care – particularly if you’re older, disabled, have a long-term health condition, or are caring for someone who may struggle in the heat.

A few simple things can make a big difference:

💧 Drink plenty of fluids throughout the day
🏠 Keep curtains and blinds closed where the sun is coming in
🌡️ Try to keep the coolest rooms in the house available
👕 Wear loose, lightweight clothing
🌳 Stay in the shade and avoid the hottest part of the day
🤝 Check in on friends, family or neighbours who might need a little extra help

And remember, you don’t have to wait until you feel thirsty to have a drink.

Most importantly, take it easy and listen to your body.

For more advice:-https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/seasonal-health/heatwave-how-to-cope-in-hot-weather

10/08/2026

On this day last year we welcomed Dales Club CIC from Ware, who support young adults with disabilities from across Hertfordshire and Essex.

“Was a fab day out, everyone had a lovely day, Crew were fantastic.”

A Sunday cruise for the Dales Club CIC!

Today we’re setting off with Dales Club CIC from Ware, who support young adults with disabilities from across Hertfordshire and Essex. They’ve booked two of our accessible canal boats for a full day of fun and relaxation on the water!

Last year, Tracey told us:
“Was a fab day out, everyone had a lovely day, Crew were fantastic.”

Here’s to another brilliant day — making memories, enjoying the sunshine, and sharing plenty of smiles!

Thank you to Babaya Photography for use of the photo.