Alongside our own welfare team, which helps individuals navigate issues such as housing insecurity, health concerns, financial hardship and safeguarding matters, the independent Waterways Chaplaincy provides an important complementary presence on the towpath. More than 100 volunteer chaplains regularly visit boating communities, providing time, local knowledge, and a listening ear, often building long-term, trusted relationships.
Playing a vital role on our network
The funding, which will help the chaplaincy as it becomes an independent Charitable Incorporated Organisation (CIO), forms an interim response to recommendations made by the Boat Licensing Commission. These called for additional support for vulnerable boaters, including improved advice and advocacy services, and providing start-up funding for an independent charity. A fuller update on how we will be taking this recommendation forward will be provided in late spring.
Sean Williams, our senior welfare & safeguarding officer, said: “The Waterways Chaplaincy and their wonderful volunteer chaplains play a vital role across our canal network, building trusted relationships with boaters and offering personal support during difficult times.
“Our own welfare team provides professional casework support for boaters facing complex challenges, and we work closely with the chaplaincy through referrals, training, and regular collaboration. This grant recognises the value of that partnership and helps ensure chaplains can continue their important work.
“It’s great that we’re able to strengthen the support available to vulnerable boaters across the canal network. This funding is an important first step towards fulfilling the Commission’s recommendation around additional welfare support for boaters, and we’ll provide a fuller update on additional independent welfare support in late spring.”
Becoming an independent charity
Reverend Chris Upton, national lead waterways chaplain, said: “We’re grateful for the Canal & River Trust’s commitment to supporting the Waterways Chaplaincy as we become an independent charity. This recognises both the impact our chaplains can make in the lives of those who are struggling, and the strength of our partnership across the inland waterways.
“Chaplains can respond flexibly and relationally, offering pastoral care, helping navigate benefits and boating red tape, signposting where appropriate, and simply being alongside people in times of crisis or isolation. Working together with the Trust, we can help strengthen resilience, restore hope, and support those who call the waterways home.”
While we and the Waterways Chaplaincy work closely together for the wellbeing of boaters, the funding is given without conditions, and the chaplaincy remains fully independent in its governance and mission.
We will continue working with partners including local authorities, Citizens Advice, and specialist charities to ensure that boaters who need help are able to access appropriate support and advice.
