West London River Boat Charity developing critical thinking, communication, and conflict-resolution skills with support from London Freemasons

A generous £8,000 grant from London Freemasons enables The Thames Boat Project to run three full day and one half day School on the River education sessions for children and young people across London to learn about the riverways environment through engaging, interactive activities in an outdoor setting.

The grant will also fund two full day and one half day therapeutic cruises for London-based individuals who may have difficulty accessing the Thames due to physical and mental health challenges and other adverse circumstances.

Using two fully wheelchair-accessible community boats the charity delivers educational programmes for children and young people across London and the South East, and therapeutic cruises for people of all ages who have limited access to the Thames due to health issues, disabilities, isolation or social exclusion.

The work carried out by the charity improves wellbeing, encourages learning, and brings people together through two main programmes: Education and Therapeutic Cruise.

Too many children grow up without meaningful access to nature. Research shows:

  • 85% of young people say being in nature makes them feel happy (Natural England, 2021).
  • 76% of children want to spend more time outdoors, yet 63% of parents take them only once a week or less, citing accessibility as the biggest barrier (National Trust & First News, 2024).
  • 92% of people agree nature supports mental health, yet 22% can't access it due to poor health (Natural England).

The generous grant from London Freemasons will address these needs directly, directly benefitting 141 individuals, offering inclusive access to meaningful outdoor experiences that inspire learning, reduce loneliness, and promote equality.

Dennis van Wonderen, Chair of Trustees said: “This generous grant from LFC will support even more Londoners in accessing the River Thames, one of this country’s most iconic natural landmarks. Your contribution will give inclusive, meaningful outdoor experiences to all Londoners that inspire learning, reduce loneliness, and promote equality.”

Paul King, London Freemasons said: “The River Thames is a key feature of London and to see it being used to support the community in the way that Thames Boat Project are doing is something that brings benefit to all communities in London. We are pleased to be able to support this project.”