The Heulwen Trust is a charity that offers people who are less abled free trips along the canal in Welshpool. Heulwen means sunshine in Welsh and the Trust hopes to bring a glimmer of sunshine into the lives of people who suffer with a problem whether of the body or of the mind
Are you eligible?
We offer free trips to those who are less abled than others. If you think you fall into any such category, try us to see if we agree with you. We do try to take a broad view of how we can assist. For instance, we do think that if a child is less abled, they should be entitled to celebrate a special occasion by asking their friends and family to join them in a party on one of our boats without charge for the use of the boat.
We do not charge for a trip but any donation you choose to make to the running costs will be gratefully received, but please remember there is no requirement, pressure or expectation to make a donation, you will be welcome in any event
When can you go?
We usually operate day trips on Monday through Friday. We also have a panel of volunteers who can take you for a “special” trip at other times.
Each boat can take up to 12 passengers including carers. A group of more than 12 could use both boats. Individuals join a small group (if everyone agrees).
Covid restrictions mean that where people do not come from the same “bubble” we have to limit passengers to 6 passengers
Trips during the week can be as short as two hours. It may be three or four or five hours (or longer but you will have to be at the Heulwen Wharf in good time and you will need to think how you can be fed and watered!).
The earliest trips could leave at 9.30am, but we are happy to suit your requirements knowing that it takes time to make your way to Welshpool. Usually the boats will have returned to the Heulwen Wharf well before 4pm. Again this depends upon your requirements.
Facilities on board
Both Heulwen II and Heulwen III are equipped with a hydraulic passenger lift specifically designed to allow for wheelchair access.
Each boat has a step free toilet suitable for our users with adequate space in the toilet area for the disabled person and two carers. On Heulwen III the toilet has step free access to a curtained off space with a height adjustable adult-sized changing bench with non slip floor.
Whilst the boats have galley facilities Covid restrictions mean that we ask you to bring any refreshments with you. Picnic facilities are available at Heulwen Wharf
The Council charge us for taking away rubbish, so we would appreciate it if you take your rubbish home with you.
Please be aware that whilst we do provide a qualified boatman, we cannot provide carers. So please ensure that the physical care of individuals is provided for.
Feedback
We have a “Visitors Book” on the boats and we would be pleased if you want to leave your comments.
In the event you wish to raise a particular point on a more formal basis, please feel free to use the Contact us page or you can write to us using the details on the About us page.
Specials
The boats generally are out during the week and are back at base by 4pm. So at weekends or on the long summer nights, there is plenty of time to take a trip (generally during British Summer Time). In June and July it is still light until 9.30 pm. So how long do you want to go?
Availability and Booking
If you want to book a trip please follow the instructions on the booking page.
We cannot take bookings over the phone.
All booking requests will be confirmed by email.
Your will be provided with a booking reference and an email Stating “Booking Confirmation”.
Please include the booking reference in all correspondence.