Nicholas began volunteering with CanalAbility in 2019, after retiring from full-time General Practice. He started his National Community Boats Association Community Crew Course (CCC) training (offered to all volunteers free of charge*) over the winter and was certified as crew in February 2020.
Nicholas says,
“I did my training over winter and was Certified as Crew in Feb 2020, then came Covid. I ended up doing hospital clerical work to relieve front-line doctors. In the summer and autumn I managed to get on day trips and help prepare the boats.”
Nicholas says that he enjoyed the structured volunteer training programme and there is good camaraderie between the volunteers.
“I enjoy being on the water and the other volunteers are very helpful. I am happy as a crew member and I am taking the training course for First Mate as it gives more flexibility for helping with filling crewing boats.”
Nicholas says that he enjoys the slower pace, noting that “you can’t rush boats or locks, they make you go at a slower more relaxing speed.” He goes on to say, “It’s nice to see clients enjoying themselves, and their carers.”
*CCC training- terms and conditions apply
