Adventure Dock Co, next to the Royal Albert Dock, has teamed up with local autism ambassador and wakeboarding icon Mikey Pinder for the weekly sessions. Tony McDonough reports

Liverpool inflatable water park attraction The Adventure Dock Co will this week offer a series of autism-friendly sessions.

Being held in partnership with local autism ambassador and wakeboarding icon, Mikey Pinder, the sessions will begin on Wednesday, September 5, at the facility next to the Royal Albert Dock.

Mikey Pinder, from West Kirby, was initially introduced to watersports back in 2016 as a way to help with his own autism. Having found his passion for wakeboarding at the nearby Liverpool Wake Park, he has gone on to compete in the Grassroots Tour competitively and is now regarded as a local celebrity. 

Mikey’s mission

On a mission to champion autism-friendly activities such Adventure Dock across the city, Mikey has been a regular to the floating obstacle course this summer. He will now lead the new inclusive splash sessions to encourage more people with autism and ADHD to try water-based activities.

He said: “In the last few years wakeboarding and watersports have changed my life, giving me more confidence, so these new sessions are a wonderful opportunity for me to now give others the chance to enjoy the same experience.

“Many kids have complex issues and many are dealing with sensory issues or ADHD and autism. I have found something that helps me and I want others to benefit too.”

Fully-inclusive

Those attending the fully-inclusive adventure sessions must be able to swim at least 25 metres un-assisted or with the help of a career, with the Adventure Dock Co providing all of the safety equipment needed including buoyancy aids, helmets and wetsuits all within the ticket price.

With a ratio of one carer for each participant, these sessions not only offer an accessible activity for those with additional needs aged eight or above, but also value for money as carers can take part for free. 

Tim Woodhead, creator of The Adventure Dock, said: “Adventure Dock is an absolutely fantastic place for anyone with autism and ADHD, we can provide a suitable and safe environment for anyone with additional needs.

“This is thanks in no small part to our fully-trained aqua guides, staff members and accessible location at Royal Albert Dock Liverpool.”

Mikey Pinder’s Adventure Sessions will start from September 5, from 12:30 – 13:30pm, and will take place every Wednesday at the same time up until October 24. Tickets are £20 per person. For more information about Adventure Dock and to book, click here.