Inspired by Scottish Coal Miners who raced their own boats on high days and holidays, the St Ayles Skiff was designed to be built and rowed by people from the local community.
Cinque Ports Rowing CIC is working to engage people across the region in building skiffs for use by themselves and their communities.
Aside from learning about the boats themselves, Community Boat Building promotes community cohesion, provides a calm, welcoming environment and a novel way to tackle isolation and loneliness.
Working in small, tutor-led groups, participants of all ages and abilities are supported through the whole process of building a 22ft St Ayles Skiff - all the way from first planks to final fit-out and paint job.
The calm, supportive environment accommodates all-comers, regardless of their ability and experience.
The build duration is between 18 and 26 weeks depending upon resources and volunteer numbers.
What we'll deliver:
- Tutored boat building workshops for ages 12 - 99
- 1 or more coastal rowing skiffs for use by the community
- Rowing taster days and events
- New skills and confidence
- Tackling isolation and loneliness
- Collaboration across different age groups
Why it's a great idea:
Our initial 'proof of concept' build has demonstrated the power that Community Boat Building has to tackle loneliness, isolation and mental health challenges. These are all issues that have been exacerbated by Covid-19 and we need to take urgent action to alleviate their effects.
Participants in our pilot project confirm what we already knew and have told us so!
"The boat building has enabled me to learn some new skills, meet and make friends (being new to the area) and feel that I have been both useful, and part of something the local community will benefit from for years to come! It has also reduced my social isolation and raised my battered self esteem at a time when Covid has meant everything is more challenging." Martine C, Faversham.
"I live alone and since the lockdowns have only gone out for food about once every ten days. I know I am suffering from depression. Going to the boat course is giving me reason to get up and I get some human contact. " Ian G, Faversham
Steps to get it done:
- Acquiring the Boat kit
- Commencing the build
- Taking the boat off the mould
- Painting the boat
- Launching the boat
We are also working to support the establishment of a Rowing Club to engage our local community in using the boats we build. We want to ensure that the legacy of this project will benefit people for many years to come.
