Surrey Care Trust Welcomes “Maggie G” to Swingbridge Community Boat Fleet
Surrey Care Trust Welcomes “Maggie G” to Swingbridge Community Boat Fleet.
Surrey Care Trust is delighted to announce the launch of the “Maggie G,” the newest vessel in its Swingbridge community boat fleet. Joining Swingbridge Tranquillity and Swingbridge Endeavour, the Maggie G expands the Trust’s capacity to deliver life-enhancing experiences on the River Wey for people of all ages and abilities.
The official launch took place on 5 June 2025 in Send, attended by supporters, volunteers, and local dignitaries. The ceremony featured the traditional bow-dipping ritual, during which Zöe Franklin, MP for Guildford, christened the boat with a celebratory pouring of beer over its bow.
Zöe Franklin, a strong supporter of community initiatives across Surrey, shared her enthusiasm:
“It was an honour to be part of the Maggie G launch. Surrey Care Trust’s work through the Swingbridge boats is a shining example of how nature, community, and care can come together to make a real difference in people’s lives. The Maggie G will help even more people experience the tranquillity and empowerment that come from being on the water.”
Designed with accessibility and versatility in mind, Maggie G will serve multiple roles—from hosting wellbeing cruises for elderly and mobility-limited passengers to supporting environmental volunteering, youth confidence-building, and outdoor learning. The vessel is a key part of the Trust’s “Nurture through Nature” programme, which leverages Surrey’s natural waterways to promote wellbeing, social connection, and practical skills development.
John Downing, CEO of Surrey Care Trust, commented:
“We’re proud to welcome Maggie G to our fleet. This boat strengthens our commitment to inclusive support, creating space for personal growth, environmental engagement, and moments of peace for hundreds more people across the county.”
For more information on the boats, volunteering opportunities, or to book a community cruise, visit www.surreycaretrust.org.uk or contact the Trust’s team.
Surrey Care Trust, a registered charity dedicated to breaking the cycle of disadvantage across Surrey by delivering holistic, long-term support to vulnerable individuals, families, and communities. Mobilising over 400 trained volunteers, the Trust provides free or heavily subsidised mentoring, skills training, counselling, and nature-based wellbeing activities that address complex issues such as unemployment, isolation, low educational attainment, and poor mental health. Last year alone, the Trust empowered more than 5,100 beneficiaries through 27,800 hours of support, achieving an impressive 88% success rate of participants moving into employment, education, or training.