There are a number of clubs in the region that actively encourage disabled canoeists into recreational and competitive paddling. The best source of information is the BCU Yearbook, which lists all clubs with an interest in or facilities for disabled canoeists.
The South West Region is one of the first in the country to have its own local team able to run Disability Awareness courses. The team consists of two members, all of whom are qualified Inland Kayak Coaches:
| Keith Ripley | Keith works with disabled people full time and assists with Berwick Canoe Club, a Bristol based club for mainly disabled people |
| Dave Cooke | Dave is a disabled paddler and is the regional disabled persons rep on the BCU SW Committee |
The courses are structured to include workshop and practical sessions and hands-on teaching of disabled paddlers. It is not neccessary to be a qualified coach to enrol. Our aim is to run one or two courses per year and the cost is usually kept to £35.00 - £40.00 per head. The team is available to run a course at more or less any location in the region.
In an effort to encourage disabled people into canoesport, the region has a number of units consisting of a trailer and various craft particularly well suited to disabled people. The units are based at various points around the region
| Exeter | This unit includes an Open Canoe and several Kayaks. |
| Frome | The Frome unit was one of the first in the region and has become part of everyday club kit |
| Poole | The most advanced unit, includes an inflatable open boat with motor, as well as several kayaks and sit-ons |
| Salisbury | Part of this unit is now used by Devizes although some kayaks remain at Salisbury |
Please contact your local disabled persons rep:
Dave Cooke
PO Box
412
Taunton
TA2 8YS
Tel 01823 413262
Fax 01823 413993