By Isle of Wight Observer
Islanders with disabilities are set to benefit from a significant funding boost following the latest round of grants awarded by Island Roads’ Isle of Wight Foundation.
More than £50,000 has been allocated to five organisations supporting people with disabilities, as part of a wider grant round which saw almost £90,000 shared between nine Island good causes. The foundation is made up of the companies behind Island Roads: Ringway Island Roads, Meridiam, Island Roads Services and Vinci Concessions.
Eddie Fellows, chairman of the foundation, said the grants would make a real difference to everyday lives. He said the foundation was delighted to support organisations providing transport, improving access and enhancing facilities for Islanders with disabilities.
Among the recipients is Care In the Garden, a Wootton-based employer offering meaningful work opportunities for adults with additional needs and mental health issues. The group has received £12,000 towards an accessible vehicle to transport clients safely to and from its site. Cowes Sailability has been awarded £7,250 to hire the specially adapted Wetwheels Hamble vessel for accessible sailing sessions in 2026.
Havenstreet Community Association has received £5,860 to improve access at its community centre, including the creation of a wheelchair-accessible front entrance. The Phoenix Project, which supports adults with learning disabilities, physical disabilities and neurological conditions, has been awarded £15,662 to install a new room divider, furniture and radiators at its Haylands headquarters in Ryde.
The Way Forward, which works with adults with learning disabilities and autism, has received £10,000 towards a new support vehicle for clients who find travelling in larger minibuses difficult.
The Isle of Wight Foundation said it was pleased to see the grants helping to improve accessibility, independence and opportunities for Islanders with disabilities across the Island.
