Diversity bid foundation ‘shut out disabled sailing charity’

A HEALTH foundation advertising a £211,000-a-year diversity role has been accused of discrimination by a sailing charity which claims disabled people were “not welcome” under its plans.

The Wellcome Trust, a London-based research organisation, acquired Premier Marinas, including Dartside Quay Marina in Devon, 10 years ago. Dartside was home to Dart Sailability, which works with disabled sailors.

But the charity says it was forced to relocate in 2021 when Premier raised its rent to an unaffordable level and its access to water was restricted.

Kate Graeme-Cook, one of Dart Sailability’s 135 members, said: “Sadly this would seem to be a very clear case of discrimination against some of the most disadvantaged people in society.”

It comes after the Wellcome Trust advertised for a chief equity, diversity and inclusion officer.

“I hope the person taking on the role learns from our shocking experience. It was a lesson in how not to do it,” Mrs Graeme-Cook added.

The charity said Premier raised its annual rent from nothing – for which they were “very grateful” – to £40,000 in 2021, and wanted to restrict its access to the water to only two weekdays.

Pete Bradshaw, chief executive of Premier Marinas, said: “When we took on the derelict marina in 2016, the buildings and pontoons were collapsing and in need of complete reconstruction.

“We did everything we could to accommodate Dart Sailability for as long as possible. We offered the charity a significant discount on commercial rates but they chose to move.”

A Wellcome spokesman said: “We are confident in the approach Premier Marinas took.”