Formerly known as the Canoe Foundation, Paddle UK’s official charity partner has been supporting paddlers across the UK since 1986. As the paddling world has grown and evolved, so has the charity. Today, the trustees are excited to announce its new name, Paddle Trust.

To celebrate the relaunch, a new funding window is now open, with £100,000 available to support paddling projects across the UK. Apply now.

Changing the landscape for paddlers

Over its life, the Paddle Trust has awarded over £700,000 in grants. £380,000 of these relate to project applications in the last 5 years, and the focus on improving access to water and the quality of our waterways for paddlers.

These projects support the development and use of water spaces for a broad community of paddlers and often assist other water users as well.

“We are delighted to announce this rebrand, which better reflects the breadth of people and projects we support.

“At this exciting time for the Trust it seems fitting to release our largest ever funding pot of £100,000 for organisations and individuals to apply for. We are looking forward to receiving grant applications for projects dedicated to sustainable access improvements for our blue spaces.” said Aiden McGuffie, Paddle Trust Trustee.

Past projects include improving access to urban waterways in Birmingham, addressing environmental access issues, such as fallen trees and river vegetation on the River Waveney in Norfolk, the redesign and reconstruction of a walkway and jetty head on Lough Henney, 20 minutes from Belfast, a new accessibility hoist on Wistlandpound Reservoir in Exmoor and a new pontoon at Cardiff International White Water Centre.

Applications welcome

The Paddle Trust welcomes applications from groups and organisations, such as paddling clubs, community groups and local authorities, as well as individuals with an active interest in improving access to water and the environment.

The Trust is looking for applications which benefit multiple users and user groups, with usage open to the general public.

They should focus on accessibility, environmental awareness and durable impact. Some key focus areas for funding are:

• The improvement of launching, landing and portage sites, such as accessible pontoons, towpaths and walkways and pontoon hoists.
• The installation of signage and information, promoting positive behaviour and educating water users on how they can respect and protect their environment.
• The enhancement of access to water for all sectors of the community, including in less advantaged areas.

It is important that projects applied for are ‘ready to go'. This means planning permission must have been researched and granted or agreed in principle, and quotes for the work obtained.