For those with disabilities, the physical and psychological demands of learning to dive can pose significant challenges. Sure, specialized equipment and training techniques mostly cater to their unique needs. However, challenges such as limited mobility or coordination may require additional support and adaptations.
Similarly, intellectually disabled individuals may face difficulties in understanding and following instructions, necessitating patient and tailored instruction methods to ensure their safety and enjoyment.
Hearing-impaired divers rely on visual cues and specialized hand signals, while visually impaired divers may require heightened tactile communication and sensory awareness.
Despite these challenges, adaptive scuba diving programs strive to create inclusive environments where all individuals can embrace the beauty and serenity of the underwater realm, fostering empowerment and camaraderie among participants.
And that’s exactly where charitable associations like U9TED Adventour and DIVETOGTHER e.V. come into the picture, specifically with projects like their eagerly anticipated ‘Ocean Bus‘. (sites in German language)
Dive Together. Experience together. New perspectives.
The group DIVETOGETHER e.V, based in Gemany, supports specialist disabled diving activities in cooperation with schools, inclusion projects (such as in special needs schools), as well as events in rehabilitation clinics.
Founder, Henning Fahrenholz says “We know that the first dives have to be easy and require a trustworthy framework”.
“Before the first breath under water, there are usually numerous questions, even more answers, and an inner leap of courage that is barely visible to the outside world.”
“All of this requires a mix of information, competent diving companions and specialised knowledge. It calls for structured conditions that make handicap diving, in all its diversity, attractive and accessible.”
“We want to help break down the barriers that exist in peoples minds and their lack of experience… and fill them with new, joyful experiences.”
The Ocean Bus.
Enabling diving for people with disabilities
Henning’s latest project, under the guise of U9TED ADVENTOUR, aims to create a structured, mobile environment for the greatest possible diversity of people with different cultures, body shapes and abilities.
The ‘Ocean Bus‘ plans to be a flexible dive centre, accessible to everyone, with toilets, cooking and shower facilities and bunk beds for sleeping. The vehicle has the versatility to be used for events, as an info bus and even as a mobile training room – all fitted out to cater for people with varying disabilities.
The concept of the Ocean Bus represents a monumental stride in making diving accessible to individuals with disabilities.
Its adaptability and comprehensive amenities are not just about convenience but are emblematic of a broader movement towards inclusion and equal opportunities in the diving community.
What the Ocean Bus represents
Accessibility for All
The primary goal of the Ocean Bus is to break down barriers to entry for individuals with disabilities. By providing facilities such as accessible toilets, shower facilities, and sleeping bunks, the bus ensures that divers with mobility impairments or other disabilities can participate in diving activities without encountering the typical accessibility challenges.
Versatility
One of the standout features of the Ocean Bus is its versatility. Not only does it serve as a mobile diver support vehicle, but it can also transform into an events venue, an information hub, or a mobile training room. This adaptability maximizes its utility, allowing it to cater to diverse needs and preferences within the disabled diving community.
Promoting Awareness and Education
As a mobile training room and information hub, the ‘Ocean Bus’ will become a powerful tool for promoting awareness and education about disabled diving. It can travel to different locations, reaching communities that might not otherwise have easy access to resources and information about adaptive diving programs and opportunities.
Community Building
By creating a space where divers with disabilities can come together, the ‘Ocean Bus’ fosters a sense of community and belonging. It provides a platform for individuals to share their experiences, support one another, and form meaningful connections with like-minded peers who share their passion for diving.
Empowerment and Confidence-Building
Access to facilities specifically designed for individuals with disabilities can have a profound impact on their confidence and self-esteem. The ‘Ocean Bus’ not only removes physical barriers but also sends a powerful message of inclusion and empowerment, encouraging people with disabilities to pursue an interest in diving with confidence and enthusiasm.
Advancing the Mission of Disabled Diving Teams
For organizations and teams dedicated to promoting disabled diving, the ‘Ocean Bus’ represents a valuable resource and tool for advancing their mission. It provides a mobile platform for outreach, training, and engagement, enabling people like Henning to expand their reach and make a tangible difference in the lives of divers with disabilities.
In essence, the Ocean Bus transcends its role as a mere mode of transportation or a dive center.
By providing accessible facilities and fostering a supportive environment, it paves the way for divers with disabilities to explore the wonders of the underwater world and participate fully in the diving community. Something that we at sdm think is a highly worthy cause.
Please, support the Ocean Bus project!
Supporting the Ocean Bus project will help make diving accessible to everyone! Your donation will provide essential facilities for divers with disabilities and promote inclusion in the diving community.
Projects like this rely on a lot of personal engagement and sacrifice, and they can’t happen without the help of like-minded others.
Every contribution, no matter the size, makes a significant impact. Donate today and be a part of the mission to ensure that all individuals can experience the transformative joy of diving.
Or here are the bank details of the organisation:
Recipient: DIVETOGETHER e.V.
Bank: Kreissparkasse Köln
IBAN: DE50 3705 0299 0022 0511 05
BIC: COKSDE33XXX
