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The Nancy Oldfield Trust The Nancy Oldfield Trust
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Business Details
42 Years
experience
Accessible Boating and Accommodation on the Norfolk Broads
The Nancy Oldfield Trust has been dedicated to empowering individuals with disabilities and disadvantages through accessible water-based activities since 1984. Our mission is to provide opportunities for personal growth, environmental engagement, and enhanced self-confidence through sailing, canoeing, motor cruising, and accommodation on the Norfolk Broads. With a team of Royal Yachting Association qualified staff and over 100 trained volunteers, we ensure safe, inclusive experiences tailored to diverse needs. Our 40-year legacy demonstrates unwavering commitment to accessibility, evidenced by purpose-built facilities like our electric cruiser White Admiral and fully adapted bungalows. We prioritise dignity and safety, operating specialist hoists for wheelchair users and offering free wellbeing trips for those receiving palliative care.

Recognised as the only facility of our kind in East Anglia, we combine expert supervision with tranquil natural surroundings to create memorable experiences. Our strategic partnerships with local authorities and charitable trusts reinforce our position as industry leaders, while continuous facility upgrades since our 1999 expansion demonstrate long-term vision. Transparency in operations and community-focused governance through our volunteer board of trustees maintain public trust. Client testimonials consistently highlight our staff's professionalism and the transformative impact of our programmes, with over 5,000 annual visitors benefiting from our services.
Services
Motor Cruising Sailing Paddlesports Wellbeing Trips Accessible Accommodation
Details
  • Year established: 1984
Highlights and features
  • We have 40 years' experience delivering accessible water activities for disabled individuals
  • Our RYA-qualified staff and 100+ trained volunteers ensure expert supervision
  • We operate specialist hoists for wheelchair users' safe boat access
  • Our fleet includes an electric cruiser designed for silent wildlife observation
  • We offer free wellbeing trips for those receiving palliative care
What people say
Tranquil wildlife encounters Professional, caring staff Life-changing opportunities Wheelchair-friendly design Memorable family experiences
Update Listing
Services
Motor Cruising
Our accessible motor cruisers provide year-round exploration of the Norfolk Broads. The White Admiral electric cruiser enables silent wildlife observation, while Nancy Bee and Maureen Kenyon offer heated cabins with galley facilities. Each vessel accommodates 8-9 passengers with wheelchair access via specialist hoists, ensuring comfortable journeys through Britain's largest protected wetland. Our RYA-certified crew prioritise safety and inclusivity.
Sailing
Accessible sailing experiences operate April-October using 12 adapted vessels. From Hansa 303s for individual sailors to RS Venture Keel boats for larger groups, our fleet accommodates diverse abilities. Trained volunteers assist with supportive seating systems, enabling participants to actively engage in sailing or simply enjoy the sensory experience of wind and water in a controlled environment.
Paddlesports
Wheelchair-accessible canoeing and pedal launches operate on calm waterways. Adaptive equipment and dual-person canoes ensure safe participation for all abilities. Sessions focus on tranquillity and nature immersion, with expert guidance helping visitors navigate reed-lined channels and observe native wildlife in undisturbed habitats.
Wellbeing Trips
Free therapeutic water excursions for palliative care patients and terminally ill individuals. These specially adapted motor cruiser trips and sailing sessions include family members at no charge. The programme combines gentle movement, natural surroundings, and expert care to provide emotional and psychological benefits through meaningful outdoor experiences.
Accommodation
Fully accessible self-catering bungalows at Neatishead and East Harling. Kenyon Bungalow sleeps 10 across four en-suite rooms with adjustable kitchen facilities, while Berwick Cottage provides ground-floor accessibility for six guests. Both properties feature adapted bathrooms and communal spaces designed for wheelchair users, with direct access to water-based activities.
People
Katie Jarvis
Centre Manager
With over 15 years' experience in adaptive water sports, Katie leads daily operations and strategic development. She oversees safety protocols and staff training while maintaining our 40-year legacy of accessible boating excellence.
Mark Elson
Deputy Centre Manager
A qualified RYA instructor, Mark manages volunteer coordination and seasonal activity planning. His expertise in adaptive equipment maintenance ensures our fleet remains at the forefront of accessibility technology.
Val Khambatta
Chair of Trustees
Leading our governance team, Val oversees financial strategy and long-term planning. With a background in charitable trust management, she ensures organisational sustainability while maintaining our founding mission.
Simon George
Finance Director
Responsible for financial oversight, Simon manages grant allocations and fundraising strategies. His expertise in charity finance helps maintain operational stability for our annual 180,000 budget.
Sarah Whelan
Changing Tack Project Facilitator
Specialising in therapeutic water activities, Sarah coordinates our wellbeing programme. She develops partnerships with healthcare providers to expand access for palliative care patients.
Questions
What accessibility features do you provide?
We have specialist hoists for wheelchair users, adapted boats with level access, height-adjustable kitchen facilities, and en-suite wet rooms in our accommodation.
Are your activities suitable for all disabilities?
Our staff assess individual needs beforehand. We cater for physical, sensory, and learning disabilities using adaptive equipment and trained support volunteers.
Can I bring family members?
Yes, family and carers are welcome. Our wellbeing trips include free places for accompanying family members of palliative care patients.
How are safety requirements managed?
All activities have RYA-qualified instructors and safety boats. Risk assessments are conducted prior to participation, with lifejackets provided for all water activities.
What funding options exist?
We rely on donations and grants. Bursaries are available for schools and groups, with fundraising support for individual participants through our TotalGiving page.
How do I book an activity?
Contact us via phone or email with preferred dates. We'll discuss accessibility requirements before confirming bookings, with taster sessions available for first-time visitors.