By using the heritage, arts and environment of the Yorkshire waterways for learning and personal development the Charity aims to help tackle the problems associated with social exclusion.  The Charity uses a mix of volunteer’s time, staff time and its physical resources to ensure it meets its objectives and provides relevant activities for its beneficiaries.  For example we use the boats, workshops, allotments and museum cafe in offering children in need of alternative forms of education the opportunity to engage in practical and life skills activities. 

In partnership with the local authority and schools the Charity encourages young people at risk of offending to participate in environment projects that benefit the local community and guide them away from anti-social behaviour.

Social, practical and volunteering opportunities available to adults, many with individual, socially excluding, difficulties, permeate all of the Charity’s activities.  Over a 100 adults a year regularly volunteer across different aspects of the charity in various capacities.  Many more attend specific courses to help with employment, health, social skills or community volunteering.

The Charity has developed Key stage 1 and 2 educational workshops based on the museum collection which are available for visiting Primary schools.

The Charity’s resources, in particular its boats and associated expertise, are also used by external bodies and organisations to help them achieve their own objectives and to generate income from any spare capacity.