Active Thames Fund opens for applications

Grants of up to £5,000 are available from the latest round of the Active Thames fund, a partnership programme led by the Port of London Authority (PLA).

The programme aims to enhance access and improve diversity and inclusion among under-represented groups, such as encouraging activity organisers to provide opportunities for people with disabilities and long-term health conditions.

Supported by Active Essex, Active Kent and Medway, London Sport, British Canoeing, British Rowing, RYA, Canal & River Trust and Thames Path National Trail, Active Thames promotes the development of watersports on the tidal Thames and inland waterways in London, Kent and Essex.

Now in its second year, the fund made 24 awards in 2021/2022 including; The Bluetits Chill Swimmers (Whitstable), the Royal Dolphins Rowing Club (Newham) and Dittons Paddle Boarding Club (Thames Ditton). (See our 2021-2022 case studies here.)

PLA sports manager, Jenny Cooper, said: “Active Thames is a key part of the Thames Vision, as we raise awareness of the benefits of blue space and promote the tidal river as a destination for physical activity.

“There are so many people living close to the Thames and inland waterways that haven’t used the water as an active environment.

This funding aims to change that perception by making watersports more affordable, accessible and inclusive, and bring new audiences to the river.”