Pudsey helps put smiles on faces

One of the highlights of the summer was Cowes Sailability Club’s Children’s Event, when children with disabilities and life-limiting conditions had the opportunity to enjoy free and accessible trips on a motorboat.  Funded by BBC Children in Need, the six excursions made a positive difference to children’s lives, by increasing their feelings of happiness, improving their mental health and boosting their confidence.

To the delight of everyone who took part, the event was attended by Pudsey Bear, the friendly, furry mascot of BBC Children in Need.   His presence undoubtedly added to the fun of the day and helped Cowes Sailability Club to achieve its mission of putting smiles on faces.

“What an honour it was to welcome Pudsey to Cowes!” says Cowes Sailability Club’s Commodore, Roger Sutton.  “We are incredibly grateful to BBC Children in Need for recognising the value of accessible outdoor activities for disabled children and providing us with funding to arrange our Children’s Event.  With Pudsey’s support, we were able to make a fun, water-based activity accessible to young disabled people on the Isle of Wight, many of whom have multiple and profound disabilities.”

Following each boat trip, Cowes Sailability Club invited parents, carers and nursing staff to participate in a short survey.  100% of the people who completed the survey strongly agreed or agreed that the boat trip organised by Cowes Sailability Club had increased the happiness of the child they had accompanied.  Moreover, 93% strongly agreed or agreed that the trip had provided an uplifting experience that improved their child’s mental health.

100% of the respondents strongly agreed that their child had displayed improved confidence, by going on the boat and perhaps taking a turn at steering it.  All of the people who completed the survey strongly agreed or agreed that Cowes Sailability Club had enabled their child to take part in an activity that otherwise would be hard for them to access.

Amy Glynn went on one of the motorboat excursions with her son Thomas who has a rare genetic condition that causes epilepsy, sensory impairment and restricted mobility.  He uses a wheelchair and needs support with most daily activities.  “Thomas absolutely loved all aspects of the trip including having the chance to drive the boat,” says Amy.  “Being on the water made him feel really happy, especially when the boat went fast!  Thomas benefits from sensory experiences and the speed of the boat, the wind on his face and the noise of the water splashing gives him additional feedback, enabling him to engage more readily.”

The Children’s Event 2025 took place using a wheelchair-accessible motorboat, chartered by Cowes Sailability Club and owned and operated by Wetwheels Hamble CIC.  Specially designed to cater for people with disabilities, Wetwheels Hamble can accommodate ten passengers, including up to three wheelchairs, on every excursion.

Pudsey enjoying the sunshine with Cowes Sailability Club volunteers Chrissie and Chris

A young person introducing Pudsey to his own bear companions