Swinton Lock is a community based charity developed in 2004 to meet the education and social needs of the communities in Rotherham, Doncaster, Barnsley and Dearne Valley. Focusing on those who through disability, social and economic disadvantage face barriers to accessing these opportunities elsewhere.

We are based adjacent to the South Yorkshire Navigational Canal and own two narrow boats one of which is fully accessible. Both boats are used to offer boat-handling courses, volunteering opportunities and pleasure trips to both children and adults.

The primary focus of our centre is a re-engagement programme for young people of secondary school age who are struggling to achieve or have been excluded from mainstream education for a variety of reasons. A wide ranging and diverse programme of activities have been devised offering alternative education programmes.

Alongside the activities for young people, the centre currently offers courses for adults of all abilities, mental health support groups, men’s only mental health group, Vulnerable adult & family one to one support.  We share other events on our Facebook page, so be sure to check that out.

We also provide volunteering opportunities which include:

• Boat Handling

• Landscaping & Gardening

• Building & Grounds maintenance

• Painting and decorating

• & more