Waterways Chaplaincy - Support for boaters in need

The Waterways Chaplains are a group who offer support and assistance to those who live in, work in and visit Britain’s navigable waterways, including the Broads.

All chaplains are Christians; the group are a charity comprising of over 100 volunteers who give their time to support local communities out on the rivers. Each area of the UK has a dedicated team of Chaplains drawn from diverse backgrounds, including inside and outside the local Clergy.

They do not push their religion but show the love of God by their actions rather than their words and are happy to help anyone whatever their race, religion, culture, orientation or socio-economic status may be. All chaplains have enhanced DBS certificates and Safeguarding Training

The Chaplains work alongside both the Broads Authority and BroadsBeat (the Norfolk Police Marine Team).

Who do the Chaplains help?

Chaplains on the Broads are there to support everyone who uses the rivers and waterways, whether they are holidaymakers, day trippers, anglers, or those working on the water.

However, a special focus of their work is reaching out to ‘liveaboards’ or people who live permanently on their boats. Life afloat can sometimes be isolating and brings unique challenges, particularly in the winter months.

Chaplains are there to listen, offer a friendly presence, and provide practical or pastoral help when it’s needed most. By walking the network of moorings and spending time on the water, they are available to anyone who may need a listening ear, a word of encouragement, or support in times of difficulty.

Mental health support

Life on the water can be relaxing and great for many people, but it doesn’t make mental health struggles disappear. Living on a boat can sometimes add extra pressure, especially when your boat requires maintenance or the weather is poor. Additional considerations like health worries, money concerns, problems with benefits, or needing a boat safety certificate and insurance could create a real challenge when times are already hard.

When someone is struggling with their mental health, even talking to another person can feel too difficult. Sorting out paperwork or dealing with official systems can be stressful for anyone, but if your mental health is already fragile it can feel overwhelming.

That’s where chaplains can help. They are able to listen, to come alongside those in need and provide caring support so no one has to face these challenges alone.

What else can the Chaplains offer support with?

The Waterways Chaplains can offer help in a range of ways:

• A confidential, nonjudgmental space - offering a listening ear and emotional companionship to reduce isolation.
• Practical assistance - delivering food, fuel, or clothing, helping with laundry, and assisting after accidents.
• Guidance with paperwork - support in navigating the benefits system, licensing, and other forms, which can be difficult if you don’t have a fixed address or reasonable internet access.
• Signposting and advocacy - connecting boaters to healthcare, housing services, food banks, and other local services.
• Financial support - limited access to hardship funds for essentials like heating, fuel, food.

Get in touch with the Broads Chaplains

For the Broads area, the senior chaplain Mike Cadman oversees a team including Pete Gillett, Katy Prentice and Brian Clark.

To contact the team please do so via the Waterways Chaplaincy Contact Page: https://waterwayschaplaincy.org.uk/contact-us-get-help-on-the-waterways/