Dive Into a Difference: Community Scuba Club in St Austell Seek Support

Breaking Barriers Underwater

Viewpoint Diving, based in St Austell, is making waves as the UK’s only disabled scuba diving centre. Offering scuba clubs and water skills classes for both children and adults, they aim to create a welcoming environment for all. Whether you’re a seasoned diver or a beginner, their services cater to everyone, including those with neurodiverse or life-limiting conditions.

As a certified SSI Centre, Viewpoint Diving also provides PADI-standard and speciality courses. Their mission goes beyond diving, with efforts like “Dive Against Debris” and marine ecology education aimed at protecting and cleaning up the marine environment.

A Vital Compressor Needed

The centre is currently facing a significant hurdle. Their air compressor, essential for filling diving cylinders, has broken down. This has forced the team to make a 24-mile round trip to fill cylinders, impacting their ability to expand their community clubs.

Qualified professional divers and disabled volunteers at the centre are ready to support a diverse group of individuals, but this equipment setback is slowing their progress. They’ve launched a GoFundMe campaign to raise £8,000. The funds will go towards a new compressor and additional equipment like buoyancy control devices (BCDs), fish ID cards, scuba slates, boots, and lead weights, which are in constant demand or need replacing.

Building Confidence Through Scuba Clubs

Despite the challenges, Viewpoint Diving runs a small children’s group every Thursday evening and a weekend club catering to participants aged from qualified youngsters to 75-year-olds. Both clubs operate at cost, with volunteers and professional divers donating their time.

Their offerings include unique experiences like blind diving, cave diving scenarios, reef protection activities, and snorkelling sessions. These activities aim to build confidence in participants while teaching them about marine environments and conservation.

How You Can Help

Viewpoint Diving is seeking community support to continue their vital work. By donating, you can help provide opportunities for individuals who may not otherwise afford diving fees and ensure the clubs have the necessary equipment to expand.

For more information or to support their cause, visit their Facebook page, website, or donate directly through their GoFundMe campaign.

Viewpoint Diving’s dedication to inclusivity and marine conservation makes them a cornerstone of the St Austell community. Your support could help them dive even deeper into making a difference.