Jubilee Sailing Trust

In the UK there are over 10.8 million people with a disability, 6.9 million of whom are of working age - which equates to just over 18%, almost 1/5th, of the UK's entire working age population*.

Looking at the numbers, and considering that one-in-four of us is close to a person with a disability, it is amazing that there is still that element of prejudice, misconception about ability and a lack of awareness of the things that can make life inclusive. The JST is here to build the bridges of awareness and understanding and by using two fantastic, specially designed tall ships, break down barriers for a better, more inclusive world.

12 Hazel Road Woolston Southampton,

Tall ships lend themselves very well to the JST's mission for two reasons: firstly, very few people spend their lives on a tall ship these days so every one of our voyage crew is as unfamiliar with the environment as the next person. Secondly, to get the ship to sail requires good teamwork so voyage crew learn how to spot people's natural strengths, talk to and encourage each other, and engage with people they may otherwise never have met. Being part of a mixed crew.

Our ships have been specially designed and built to acheive our mission. They are an example of what can be done to enable people with very different levels of physical ability to participate fully. They are also a reminder to people of how important simple design changes can be to making an environment inclusive. The ships have flat wide decks, raised markers on hand rails, lifts between decks and gangways that are wide enough for a wheelchair: all considerations that enable people to get around unaided. Equally there are speaking compasses and hearing loops on both ships.

Times have changed since the JST came to life in 1978 . While legislation has forced changes, positive role models such as Dame Tanni Grey Thompson and other paralympic athletes have helped to show everyone - regardless of physical status - what can be achieved with determination and some adaptations in equipment. Clearly we can't all emulate these superbly talented and dedicated athletes. The point is that with the right equipment and with small adjustments, everyone can take part in the same activity. Being a part of a mixed-ability crew sailing Lord Nelson or Tenacious demonstrates this beyond doubt.