Waterways Chaplaincy now an independent charity

Church Army has an important update to share about Waterways Chaplaincy. 

Waterways Chaplaincy has now become an independent Charitable Incorporated Organisation (CIO), stepping into a new season after three years within the Church Army family – and more than 16 years of serving communities across the UK’s inland waterways. 

This has been a thoughtful and prayerful decision, and one we believe will enable the chaplaincy to grow and flourish in new ways.

From its beginnings on a single stretch of canal, Waterways Chaplaincy now serves communities across more than 3,000 miles of waterways. Today, over 100 volunteer chaplains walk towpaths and riverbanks, offering practical, emotional and spiritual support to those who live, work and travel on the waterways. 

During its time with Church Army, the chaplaincy has continued to strengthen and expand its impact. In the past year alone, chaplains have supported thousands of people facing complex challenges including mental and physical health issues, financial hardship, housing insecurity and isolation. Through a ministry of presence -simply being there, listening well, and walking alongside – chaplains have built trusted relationships in often overlooked communities.

This work has also been strengthened through key partnerships. Waterways Chaplaincy has developed a strong relationship with the Canal & River Trust, who have recently awarded funding to support the transition into independence, recognising the vital role chaplains play in supporting vulnerable boaters and waterways communities.

Church Army too, has committed to continue supporting Waterways Chaplaincy with a two-year grant, helping to ensure stability as the organisation establishes its own funding and infrastructure. We remain deeply encouraged by their work and fully supportive of their future.

Matt Barlow, CEO of Church Army shares:

“Waterways Chaplaincy embodies so much of what we value – meeting people where they are, offering care without conditions, and sharing hope in everyday places. While this has been a difficult decision, we genuinely believe this is the right moment for them to flourish independently.”

Revd Chris Upton, National Lead Chaplain, adds:

“We are immensely grateful to Church Army and to everyone who has supported us throughout these past three years; we would not have come this far without you. It would be easy to suggest otherwise, but we continue to be in a fragile place – and in many ways this feel appropriate, mirroring both the vulnerability of the canal network and of the individuals and communities we seek to walk alongside.”

We are thankful for all that has been achieved during this time, and for the way Church Army supporters have helped make this work possible as part of our wider mission.

As Waterways Chaplaincy begins this next chapter, we invite you to continue supporting them – through prayer, encouragement and, where you feel able, volunteering or giving.

You can find out more or get involved at: waterwayschaplaincy.org.uk