Sailing is almost unique as an outdoor activity that minimizes rather than accentuates disability.
By using adapted boats and equipment disabled sailors can enjoy the same freedom and exhilaration as their non disabled compatriots. To encourage proper standards of safety and the right facilities to meet the needs of disabled sailors, RYA Sailability has introduced its 'Foundation' Scheme in which sailing clubs' safety arrangements are assessed together with their ability to provide for at least one class of disability. Should they lack any aspect of training or equipment then RYA Sailability will help to rectify that shortfall both through financial support and by providing training. Once clubs have reached the basic 'Foundation' level they are encouraged to develop their facilities still further and RYA Sailability is on hand with expert advice, training and financial support. Thus it is hoped to expand the network of sailing clubs to provide for the 20,000 disabled people around Britain who would sail regularly if they had the opportunity.