New sailing lessons aim to 'unify communities'

Young people who would not usually have access to water sports are being taught sailing skills to help "unify communities".

Operating at Bristol's The All Aboard Watersports Centre, The New Horizons project introduces 10 to 20 year olds to the sport, which could "open doors to unexpected jobs".

Run in collaboration by local groups Black2Nature and DET Entertainment, the project is aimed to "open young people's eyes to new possibilities".

Organiser of the initiative Rob Howlett said new experiences were "vital" for growing confidence.

“It’s amazing the impact that having access to water can have on people’s lives," added Mr Howlett, who is also The Royal Yachting Association's (RYA) regional manager.

The project teaches life skills such as leadership, time management, and persistence, organisers have said.

The project is part of the RYA’s national campaign "Together on Water" which aims to unite different communities.

"Young people in the UK and Bristol face so many challenges as they grow up, particularly if they haven’t had access to resources and so coming together as a community to facilitate new experiences is vital for growing their confidence and opening their eyes to new possibilities," said Mr Howlett.

Following the introductory sessions, many young people go on to complete training courses with the RYA.

Bristol-based Black to Nature, which campaigns for equal access to nature for visible minority ethnic communities, has had several of its members gains skills through the project.

Senior equality, diversity and inclusion manager Lily Khandker said: “It was a wonderful experience to have our young people and their families discover a real love of being on the water.

"I have really seen them grow and I can see how the skills they’re learning are going to be with them for life.”

The organisers said the project also highlights how sailing can open unexpected job opportunities, including roles in the travel and leisure industry and working in harbours.

The All Aboard Watersports Centre is currently advertising for six roles in its fully-funded trainee instructor programme.

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