Frequently Asked Questions
Membership questions
Why should I join the LCBA?
Joining shows you support our cause in working together to make the canal a better place to live and bring our community together. As our membership grows we’ll be able to unlock more funding opportunities to improve the servcies we offer.
What benefits does being a member of the LCBA give?
Being a member gives you access to information, advice & practical from a group of volunteers who have pledged to give back to the community.
How much does it cost to join the LCBA?
It’s free! You can chose to donate if you wish when you sign up, but there is no obligation and your free membership lasts for 12 months.
What is the criteria to join?
To become a MEMBER, you must be a boater who lives at least 50% of your time onboard, and using the Lancaster Canal.
What are the different membership types?
You can register as a MEMBER to get help from our volunteer base. If you would like to get help but also pledge to give back by volunteering when you can, you should register as a VOLUNTEER MEMBER.
What if I live less than 50%of my time on a boat?
Unfortunately you don’t qualify for help from our volunteer base. However you can still register as a SUPPORTER if you would like to volunteer to help those that do.
How if I don’t live on a boat ?
You can still volunteer to help those that do. Simply register as a SUPPORTER to be able to join our volunteer base.
Support & Welfare questions
What type of support does the LCBA offer ?
We provide guidance, welfare resources, and practical boating advice, through online resources and practical support through our volunteer base.
What kind of practical support do you offer?
This depends on your individual needs. Our volunteers do anything from picking up prescriptions and getting shopping for those less mobile. Others can provide electrical and engine advice to help keep you warm and powered up.
Can you provide Welfare support or advice?
While some of our volunteers have experience in this area, where possible, we try to signpost you to other organisations that can provide help to those living on a boat.
Can you provide mental health support ?
While some of our volunteers are trained in Mental Health First Aid, we are not counsellors and therefore we’ll always try to signpost you to local services with the relevant training.
I’m struggling with my heating bills, can you help?
In extreme cases we may be able to help with bags of coal or a few litres of diesel to help keep you warm. We can also give advice on how to save fuel. Talk to us if you are struggling.
I can’t afford a mechanic, can you help ?
We do have a small, and very limited budget to provide emergency help in cases where you may need your engine for power or to comply with navigational regulations. Talk to us and we’ll see what we can do.
Can you help me make friends in the boating community?
Yes, we can. Adapting to life on the water can take time and it can be isolating at first. We can help connect you with others in our community so that you feel supported. Get in touch and we’ll help connect you with like minded people.
How do you protect vunerable members?
The LCBA has safe guarding policies in place to protect both it’s members AND volunteers. We always speak to you first over the phone before visiting and where appropriate a pair of volunteers can visit you.
Help support our community group by donating to the LCBA
Volunteering questions
I’d like to volunteer to help, how do I do this?
First. become a VOLUNTEER MEMBER if you live on a boat at least 50% of the time. If you don’t, then register as a SUPPORTER. Once you’ve registered complete your profile and tell us about your skills and how you would like to volunteer.
I have a professional skill, can I donate my time?
Yes! – if you’re a mechanic, an electrican, or experienced in the marine world you should pledge to volunteer. We also need volunteers skilled in Mental Health Support, Home Care professionals, and drivers.
Can I volunteer if I don’t have a special skill?
Everyone has a special skill. Get in touch and we’ll help you find yours.
How much time do I need to volunteer for?
You can pledge to give as much or as little time as you like. Its entirely up to you and we encourage you to be realistic about the amount of time you can give.
I run a community group, can we help you?
We believe in strength in community. If you are part of an organisation and you think you can help offer our members more services, please get in touch.
Can I support the LCBA with a donation?
Yes please! – Anyone can donate financially using the donate button at the top of this page. We also welcome donations of things such as tools, blankets, coal, food, etc. Please get in touch if you want to donate items.
Can I help you run an event?
Yes! – We try to run regular boaters events and you can volunteer to help out at these. You could also volunteer to give a talk or run a workshop that may help liveaboard boaters.
What safeguarding do you offer volunteers?
When you become a VOLUNTEER MEMBER, a committee member or a SUPPORTER you will be required to take our onboarding course which covers our safeguarding policies and duties. Be assured that we have taken great care to put these in place to help protect our members.
What next?
Simply sign up to become a member, get help and support from our volunteer base, or pledge to help others. There are three membership types. They are all FREE. Membership lasts for 12 months and is renewable.
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Type One: Member
You must live on a boat for at least 50% of the time. Register as a MEMBER if you think you may need help from our volunteers.
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Type Two: Volunteer Member
You must live on a boat for at least 50% of the time . Register as a VOLUNTEER MEMBER if you would like to pledge to help others but also be eligible for help yourself.
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Type Three: Supporter
If you do not live on a boat for at least 50% of the time, you can still volunteer to help those that do. Register as a SUPPORTER.