I work for the Centre for Fun and Families as a facilitator and trainer enabling parents and carers to understand and better support children with additional needs, anxiety or challenging behaviour.

My Fellowship was about exploring disabled access on the inland waterways. The aim was to enable wider participation in active outdoor adventure for young people with additional needs or disabilities by researching accessible waterways projects in Europe.

For nine years I was the co-manager of a community narrowboat project for young people from disadvantaged backgrounds, where I was involved in the design and build of the accessible boat. I was also involved in the National Community Boats Association, through which I was able to disseminate the findings of the research to a wider audience. This led to trips abroad, twinning of projects and personal friendships.

Enabling young people with additional needs to develop and grow through fun and participation was at the heart of the project. That has continued throughout my career as a development officer, advocacy and family support worker. My interest in the waterways and people continues through volunteering with the Narrow Boat Trust.