ExxonMobil Fawley makes waves with sailing adventure for children with disabilities

ExxonMobil Fawley is making waves for inclusivity, by providing funding for up to 80 children with profound and complex disabilities to embark on a memorable seafaring adventure.

The company donated £8,000 to the Wetwheels Foundation, a charity dedicated to delivering barrier-free, fully accessible power-boating experiences on The Solent.

The fully accessible boats are designed to empower disabled and disadvantaged individuals as active participants, not mere passengers.

Children joined the trip from schools including Cedar School, Forest Park School, Polygon School, and Rosewood Free School.

With ExxonMobil Fawley and Wetwheels running two trips each day from Ocean Village, children not only experienced the thrill of being out on the open water, but also had the chance to steer the boat, learn basic seamanship skills, and see marine life and the busy port activity up close.

To make the event even more special, the children were waved off by ExxonMobil Fawley’s mascot, Diesel the Cat, who drummed up the excitement as they set sail.

“Our research has shown that more than 80 per cent of our participants have never previously been on the open water, which is something that we want to change,” said Wetwheels Founder Geoff Holt MBE, who is himself a disabled yachtsman.

“By receiving this donation from ExxonMobil Fawley, we were able to provide these children with an unforgettable day. Not only are we helping to break down barriers, but are introducing new skills that drive newfound independence and confidence. We are extremely grateful for the support from ExxonMobil Fawley and for making these memorable days possible.”

Leonardo Di Napoli, Fawley Chemicals Process Manager, said: “Partnering with Wetwheels means we can give these young people an unforgettable, fully inclusive opportunity.

“The Solent is at the heart of our operations. It is the global gateway for much of our marine activity and also connects us to local communities along the coastline. It was a thrill to be able to take the children out on the water and let them experience a day that inspires confidence, creates memories, and celebrates our shared connection to the sea.”

For more information on ExxonMobil Fawley please visit exxonmobil.co.uk

ENDS 

About ExxonMobil 

ExxonMobil Fawley complex is the largest in the UK and manufactures a range of energy and chemical products used by communities and business every day.

ExxonMobil Fawley has a long and proud history of supporting the local community and charitable organisations. Over the past five years alone, the complex has contributed more than £1m in community support.