New association tackling issues

THE new Association of Continuous Cruisers (ACC) is already very busy tackling a number of very important issues that have really needed addressing for many years, John Sloan tells us.

Louise Yeoman ACC Welfare Officer has found herself inundated with requests for help explaining:

"I have been amazed at the number of issues that continuous cruisers have raised. There seem to be three clear leaders at present and they are issues around Health Care, Winter Fuel Allowance and Bus Passes. A large number of our members have worked hard all their lives but due to the fact that they are now mainly classed as 'No Fixed Abode' find it difficult to claim the benefits that are very easy for those living in bricks and mortar."

Grow at a fast rate

Membership numbers have continued to grow at a very fast rate showing the real need for representation for Continuous Cruisers, with John reporting:

"I am so pleased that a large number of non continuous cruisers have joined showing that we have support from many boaters. Such people who can become Associate Members, either spend the majority of the year on the system or are waiting for the day when they are able to become continuous cruisers.

"We are in the process of organising a gathering of members for next year, this will be held over a week and we have contacted Canal & River Trust to finalise a location as this event will also include a week's volunteering so that continuous cruisers can put something back into the canals they care for so much."