LA UNCHING
while adhering to government guidelines on social distancing and numbers. Many clubs have outdoor spaces that can still be enjoyed in winter. As long as it’s safe to do so, clubs may want to extend their clubhouse bar and catering opening times, within Covid rules, to allow the maximum number of people to enjoy the club while being socially distanced.
Do you have any advice on how clubs can keep in touch with their members?
Keeping sailors on board during winter
Q&A | ADAM MCGOVERN
Clubs and members need to work together, says north-west RYA Regional Development Officer Adam McGovern
R
egional Development Officers work with clubs and training centres to develop participation, and offer
advice and support. Adam’s patch covers the north-west and the Isle of Man.
Why is it so important for clubs to keep their members engaged this winter?
Some members will continue go out on the water throughout the winter, which is great. However, for many members the colder months will mean less boating, or even isolating at home because of the pandemic. The RYA regional development team is encouraging clubs to create a winter programme that will include activities for all their members to maximise the contact they have with them.
What activities can clubs consider?
With the increase in local lockdowns and restrictions on gatherings, online talks, Q&A sessions and regular virtual quiz nights work well. RYA club development forums and rules webinars
proved extremely popular during lockdown, so clubs could round up speakers to host live or recorded talks. There are usually members within every club with some great stories or expertise to pass on, so ask them to give a talk. eSailing is also a fun way to encourage competition during the colder months, all from the warmth of your own home! (Visit our eSailing web page for details:
www.rya.org.uk/Pages/ virtual-regatta.aspx) Back on the water, some venues will
be running an annual winter series. Whether you regularly run these or it’s your first time, the demand for winter sailing could be higher than ever.
What about non-sailing activities that can be done with other people?
Cold weather doesn’t always mean people want to be indoors. Clubs may want to consider introducing other activities, such as club walks or bike rides to help members keep in touch and active in a different way – obviously
It’s really important to continue to communicate with members, particularly those further away or who may be shielding. We’re encouraging clubs to keep in touch with their members in as many ways as possible, from social media and website posts to WhatsApp messages. Letters can be popular too, but may be an added cost at a time when clubs want to keep these to a minimum. Some clubs have created a buddy system or small social to provide a safe system for the more vulnerable to still enjoy all the benefits of being a member. Being a member of a club is a fantastic
way to connect with like-minded people. Winter doesn’t mean clubs shut up shop; they simply adapt to the conditions and try to offer a range of suitable activities. This year won’t be any different, but many clubs will need to work a little harder to keep their members interested. Personally, being involved in boating
is great for both my physical and mental wellbeing. This year, more than ever, it’s important to get involved with your club’s activities. This might be face-to- face, virtually or both!
If you have any questions about
winter activities and member engagement please get in touch with your Regional Development Officer:
www.rya.org.uk/go/rdos
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Photo: Barbara West / Alamy Stock Photo
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