RYA Midlands

02/10/2026

As we move into the Autumn season, our regional development activities start. Regional Manager Ben Hodgson has this quick update about our first event.

28/09/2026

How can affiliates build a future-ready organisation?

Join us at the RYA Connected Conferences this November to explore changing member expectations, the impact of new technologies, sustainability and the challenges facing volunteers today.

Free for affiliates to attend, the conferences are an opportunity to connect with peers, share ideas and take away practical insights to help your organisation thrive in a changing world.

Don't miss out! Places are available to book now: http://rya.org/hyR050ZQYh5

Photo credit: Mark Radford

17/09/2026

Sailing in the city! This week some of the regional team have been at Birmingham City University Welcome Week, as part of a project to enable students to get afloat at some Watersports hub events. In partnership with Sea Cadets Midlands Boat Station the team have used the regional event equipment to get the message out.

If you have an event coming up and want to use our promotional pack for free, get in touch with the team: [email protected]

09/09/2026

We are excited to announce that it is officially Connected Conference season again! 👀

The annual RYA Connected Conferences bring affiliates together to share ideas, hear from peers and gain practical advice. Taking place this November and FREE for affiliates to attend.

This year's events will focus on:

• How the world around us is changing
• Member expectations evolving
• Volunteers being under increased pressure
• Technology transforming how organisations operate
• Sustainability becoming ever more important

There will also be more opportunities for affiliates to connect, share experiences and learn from one another.

Bookings are now open! Find out more and book your place today 🔗 http://rya.org/2Cq750ZLsXh

04/09/2026

If you are an ILCA sailor looking for a bit of further coaching and support, the ILCA UK class Association have some great opportunities coming up. Train with sailors from across the region in your favourite boat! Details via the ILCA website. https://ilca.uk/

13/08/2026

Deadline approaching!
The RYA Club membership census is one of the most powerful data sources in understanding how organisations across the region and UK are changing over time. The deadline for completing the census is this Sunday!
Make sure your organisation is included by completing the census return, (invitations have been sent via email) and help shape the future of RYA support.

12/08/2026

If you or your organisation would like to know more about supporting disabled people get afloat safely, we have a Disability Awareness Training (DAT) course running later this month. The course will be hosted by Shropshire Sailing Club and is free to attend. Booking info and details here:

A short course to educate and build confidence in people involved with supporting on-water activity at RYA organisations.

24/07/2026

RYA Club membership census!
In 2025 Midlands clubs and Affiliated organisations reported a total of 18,523 members, down slightly on the previous year. Make sure your organisation is included in this years figures by completing your RYA Club membership census return. The deadline is approaching (16 August) so don't delay, make sure your return is submitted to help shape our targeted support.

23/07/2026

Our recent Women on Water development day had an atmosphere, with a variety of activity afloat. Sailing Developer Sallie Bowd had chance to do a quick update including the details of our next session if you want to get involved.

17/07/2026

Sailing and boating happens because so many people give their time to support others to get out on the water. Why don't you nominate someone you know for an RYA Impact Award to say thank you. https://www.rya.org.uk/about-us/rya-awards/