Nairn Beach Wheelchairs (NBW) is a volunteer run organisation that enables wheelchair users to access the beach through their free to use, specialised beach wheelchairs. They just opened in March 2025 and will have an official launch this summer- keep an eye out for announcements, there are exciting things coming!
NBW has 5 manual wheelchairs to suit different postural support needs, and their band of friendly volunteers can help you choose the best one for you. There are also have a variety of additional items for you to use including postural supports, cosy covers and blankets to keep you warm and binoculars to help you and your family enjoy the day. All chair users need to be accompanied by someone fit enough to be able to push them to the beach.
In their first month, they’ve helped over 10 people get access to the beach who otherwise wouldn’t have been able to. Many haven’t been able to enjoy being on the beach for many years, some up to 20. They have a 12-year-old booked to visit later in the summer who has never actually been on a beach.
NBW are really pleased to be able to help by giving access to the specialist equipment people need. For most wheelchair users, beach accessible wheelchairs are too expensive, or too difficult to transport and store- they realised that there is a great need for a service to provide access to the wonderful Nairn beaches, there’s even been interest from abroad. NBW recognise that this service needs to be part of a wider integration plan- and that it will make Nairn more attractive as a destination for some people, having a positive impact on the local economy.
Representation is important- it really is essential that wheelchair users are visible in all parts of society- and that includes the beach. This can influence both how wheelchair users see themselves and how others perceive them, helping to build a more inclusive society. NBW are contributing to that reality by providing this equipment, free to use.
There has been lot of fantastic support and good will from the local community – from fundraising to volunteering, and they’ve heard so many inspiring and moving stories since starting their project. If any other communities in Highland see a need in their area and want to start something similar, NBWs says, ‘just go for it!’ There is a lot of support available from the Highland Third Sector Interface for constitutional needs, and other beach wheelchair organisations are more than willing to lend support. For NBW, primarily Dornoch Beach Wheelchairs, but also Balmedie and Portobello Beach Wheelchairs were incredibly generous with sharing their experiences and expertise. Amelia, chair of NBW said: “Starting something similar is not as big a deal as it seems- you just have to start, and if there is a need, the community will get behind it, that was our experience”.
NBW have big plans for the future, hoping to run events and link with other organisations and businesses in the town who are offering wheelchair friendly services and opportunities. For just now they’re focussing mostly on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays but will aim to meet the needs of users where possible, so please do check out their website nairnbeachwheelchairs.co.uk call them on 07354471463.
