Autism on the Water’s sailing day at Rhu Marina saw around 120 people – including autistic people and their families and carers - take to the sea for 45-minute slots on Saturday, May 6.
The event is one of several that the charity has organised since it was founded by Helensburgh resident Murray MacDonald in 2016, and has been their most popular so far – with most days having a turnout of 20 to 30 people.
The sailing days aim to help people who are anywhere on the autistic spectrum develop their confidence, social skills, and problem solving.
Organiser Kirsty Pierce said: “Sailing is for people with all elements of the spectrum and means different things to different people.
“Some like to sit quietly being soothed by the rocking of the boat, while others prefer to get more involved taking a turn of steering or helping with the rigging.
“Getting out on the water helps with social skills, confidence and problem solving which they may have trouble with.”
For autistic people, sailing can have many different benefits, for some it can be talking and act as stress relief, but others can find the activity exciting.
Eilidh Johnston, who attended the day on Saturday, has ventured into racing and entered the Kip Regatta on May 13 and 14.
To learn more about Autism on the Water, visit: www.autismonthewater.co.uk.
No comments:
Post a Comment