A Momentum riverboat volunteer

This month, we’re celebrating Simon, a true superstar whose dedication helps keep our riverboat running and ensures families can continue to enjoy precious moments on the water.

Simon, from Sunbury-on-Thames, Surrey, volunteers as a skipper as part of our riverboat crew. In this role, he skippers Moments on the River alongside fellow crew members, welcomes families on board, delivers safety briefings ahead of trips, and helps ensure the safety and wellbeing of passengers throughout their journey.

Simon has been volunteering on Momentum’s riverboat for nine years. In addition to his regular duties, he often goes the extra mile by cleaning the boat between overnight stays and volunteering to skipper trips that can be more challenging to fill, such as evening events.

Talking about his love for boats and the River Thames, Simon said: “My interest in boats began when I was young and part of the Sea Scouts, and it’s continued to grow ever since. I’ve always enjoyed being out on the water, and over time that developed into a genuine enthusiasm for how boats work, the variety of designs, and the sense of freedom boating provides. Spending time on the River Thames adds even more to it – the mix of history, wildlife, and ever‑changing scenery makes it a pretty unbeatable place to switch off. There is something special about cruising past landmarks you’ve seen a hundred times from land, spotting swans and herons along the quieter stretches, and enjoying that feeling of calm you only really get on the water. These days, I follow the industry more closely, keep up with new technologies and innovations, and spend as much time as possible around the water. It is something I find both relaxing and endlessly fascinating.”

Touching on why he volunteers with Momentum, Simon said: “My inspiration came from wanting to use something I love, being on the River Thames, to give families a break from what they are going through. The river has always been a place of calm and escape for me, and I realised it could offer the same moment of peace for families facing incredibly difficult times.

“There is something special about being out on the Thames – the slower pace, the fresh air, the wildlife, and the feeling of stepping away from everything, even if only for an hour or two. If I can help create a small pocket of calm or a happy memory during a tough chapter, then it feels like time very well spent. For me, it is a simple way to give back, using something I already enjoy, to make someone else’s day a little lighter. 

“The best thing about volunteering for Momentum is seeing the difference even a small moment of escape can make for families who are going through an incredibly tough time. When you are out on the river with them, you can almost see the weight lift, if only for an hour or two. There is a real sense of calm and relief that the Thames brings and being able to share that with families who truly need it is incredibly rewarding. It is the smiles, the quiet moments, and the feeling that you’ve helped create a positive memory during a difficult chapter. That’s what makes it special, and why I enjoy doing it so much.”

Sophie, our Family Respite Services Manager said: “Simon consistently goes above and beyond, generously giving his time and helping Momentum save costs by carrying out boat repairs and maintenance himself wherever possible. Throughout the recent cold weather, he has diligently checked on the boat, and as we look ahead to spring, Simon is preparing to undertake carpentry repairs before the 2026 boat trips start. We are incredibly grateful to Simon for his generosity and for the commitment he shows through giving so much of his spare time.”

Volunteering for Momentum is hugely rewarding and a great way to use your time and skills to make a real difference. Why not make 2026 the year you volunteer. Find out more