Accessible | Trevassack Holidays

One Stay at Trevassack Holidays Changed Everything

Katie Chown — Tue, 24 Mar 2026 11:04:27 +0000

A Place to Breathe: How One Stay at Trevassack Holidays Changed Everything for the Griffiths Family

When Lizzie and Ian Griffiths found themselves between homes during a major renovation, they never expected that a temporary stay at Trevassack Holidays would end up reshaping the course of their family’s life.

The Griffiths are local to Helston and from a family of sailors, but they weren’t coming to Trevassack Lake for a holiday on the water. Instead, they were seeking something far more fundamental: dignity, safety and a chance to feel like a family again.

Their son Tom, now 21, was born with a rare medical condition that means he must be fed through a tube directly into his heart. His immune system is virtually non-existent, making infection a constant and life-threatening risk. On top of this, Tom lives with severe autism, making change incredibly challenging for him.

Until recently, the family’s only way to bathe Tom was in a makeshift paddling pool set up in their living room. It was undignified, unsafe and unsanitary – particularly for someone so vulnerable. Despite their pleas, the system offered no real solution. In fact, it seemed determined to separate them: the only proposed alternative was to move Tom into residential care. But for the Griffiths, that was never an option.

“He’s our son. Sending him away would have broken us,” says Tom's mum, Lizzie.

The battle to keep Tom at home escalated all the way to the top of NHS England. The family fought tirelessly – then the pandemic hit, stalling everything. Finally, they were able to secure a new property through the housing association LiveWest and began transforming the entire ground floor into a bespoke care apartment, complete with space for Tom’s 24 hour care team. But the transition was daunting. Tom hadn’t had a bath since he was four years old and the very idea of hoisting and bathing was alien and frightening.

Then they found Trevassack Holidays.

The family stayed in Lizard House for over a month while their home was being adapted – and for the first time in years, they had space. Real, functional, accessible space. The integrated ceiling track hoist in the bedroom and adjoining wet-room allowed them to help Tom into a proper bath with care, calm and dignity. Using familiar routines – such as playing a favourite film on the iPad – they earned his trust of the new contraption. And once he was in? He didn’t want to get out.

“He absolutely loved it,” Lizzie laughs. “The only problem was getting him to leave the bath!”

The experience gave the family something they’d barely dared hope for: a vision of what life could be like. The facilities at Trevassack became a blueprint for their new home, showing them what really worked. Other so-called accessible options had fallen short – clumsy mobile hoists, non-adapted baths, cramped changing areas – but here, everything was designed with real-world needs in mind. From the integrated ceiling hoist to the wide doorways, the separate carer room to the dog-friendly policy, it all added up to something rare and precious: normality.

“It was life-changing. Actually, it was life-saving.”

Trevassack wasn’t just a temporary stop; it was proof of concept. It gave them the confidence to fight harder, the clarity to plan better and, most of all, a moment to breathe. It was both Tom’s dad’s birthday and his grandmother’s 80th while they were there – two milestones they were able to celebrate as a family, in comfort and togetherness.

They also credit Karen, one of the compassionate site wardens, whose background in care meant she instinctively understood what the family needed.

“Nothing was too much trouble,” Lizzie says. “She made it feel safe. That means everything when you’re constantly fighting for basic rights.”

Today, Tom is rewriting the rules. He’s now the longest-surviving patient of his condition in the South West, having defied his original prognosis of just seven years. He’s living proof that with the right support, people can not only survive – they can thrive.

“Tom is our reason for everything,” his mother says. “We took his photo to every meeting, to remind people he’s not a number. He’s a son, a brother, a person. And he deserves to live as such.”

The Griffiths’ story is one of love, persistence and transformation – and Trevassack Holidays was there at a pivotal moment. It wasn’t just a place to stay. It was a bridge between what they’d endured and what they hoped to build. A safe harbour during the storm.

They haven’t had a real holiday in over 21 years. But for those few weeks at Trevassack, they found peace. Space. Dignity. And a renewed belief in what’s possible.

From all of us at Trevassack Holidays – thank you, Griffiths family, for letting us be a part of your journey.

Trevassack Holidays is a Gold award winner for Accessibility and Inclusivity, a not-for-profit venture owned by Children’s Sailing Trust.

Christmas in Bradbury House

Katie Chown — Fri, 26 Sep 2025 09:37:31 +0000

Christmas & New Year at Bradbury House, Trevassack Lake

A Festive Escape in the Heart of Cornish Countryside

December in Cornwall is a special kind of magic; crisp air, starry skies and quiet moments by the water. If you’re dreaming of a Christmas or New Year getaway that blends comfort, accessibility and breath-taking scenery, Bradbury House at Trevassack Lake is the perfect choice.

This three-bedroom, self-catering holiday cottage sleeps up to six guests and sits right on the water’s edge. Its vaulted ceilings, underfloor heating and full-height windows make it a bright yet cosy space for festive gatherings.

Thoughtfully Designed for Everyone

Bradbury House is more than just a cottage – it’s designed with accessibility in mind, that means everyone can enjoy a stress-free, inclusive Christmas break together:

Step-free access and wide doorways
Wet-room style bathrooms with optional grab rails
Electric profiling beds and ceiling hoist systems available
Adjustable kitchen counters for ease of use
Open-plan living space, ideal for families and carers

Christmas Morning by the Lake

Picture arriving just before Christmas, stepping inside to a warm, light-filled living area and taking in the view over Trevassack Lake. Your beds are made, the kitchen is ready for a festive feast and, outside on the decking, the private hot tub is waiting for a starlit soak.

Christmas Day

Cook up your favourite Christmas dinner in the fully equipped kitchen, then gather together in the open-plan lounge to share gifts and festive games.

Boxing Day

Take a bracing winter walk along the coastline of the Lizard Peninsula or stay cosy with hot chocolate and board games.

New Year's Eve

Toast midnight from the hot tub under a clear Cornish sky, then start the new year with a peaceful morning by the lake.

Why Choose Bradbury House for Your Festive Break

Spacious and Modern – plenty of room for up to six guests
Fully Accessible – designed for guests with mobility needs
Cosy and Warm – underfloor heating and plenty of space to bring a tree
Unbeatable Views – wake up to the water every day
Private Hot Tub – enjoy winter stargazing in comfort

Plan Ahead for a Stress-Free Stay

Book early to secure your preferred festive dates

Arrange for a grocery delivery to stock up for Christmas dinner

Pack extra blankets and warm clothes for those coastal walks

Consider pre-booking accessible equipment you might need

Make This Christmas or New Year One to Remember

Bradbury House isn’t just a place to stay, it’s a place to make memories. Whether you’re looking for a cosy family Christmas, a peaceful escape, or an inclusive space where everyone can celebrate together, Trevassack Lake is the perfect backdrop.

Book your festive stay now and make this year’s holiday season truly unforgettable.

Mobility Equipment from the Mark Master Masons of Cornwall

Katie Chown — Fri, 14 Jun 2024 15:59:39 +0000

When we were first setting up the facilities and future of everything here at Trevassack Lake, we were blessed with the generosity of the Mark Master Masons of Cornwall who helped fund the construction of a unique floating structure. And a few years later, they’re back to help in other, much appreciated ways.

In May, Children’s Sailing Trust announced the awarding of monies from The Mark Benevolent Fund so that we may make much-requested improvements to our holiday facilities at Trevassack Lake, with the following Facebook Post:

Our grateful thanks go once more to The Mark Benevolent Fund for supporting our recent grant application!

Children’s Sailing Trust is looking forward to taking delivery of several items of new accessibility equipment which will help those with physical disabilities access our facilities, allowing them to enjoy everything we have to offer at our Trevassack Lake site unhindered. Watch this space for an update when the fabulous new equipment arrives!

Thank you Provincial Grand Lodge of Mark Master Masons of Cornwall

#charity #cornwall #grantapplications #fundraising #accessibilityforall #ImageDescription an image of Trevassack Lake with the logo of The Mark Benevolent Fund overlayed.

The generous sum awarded on this occasion allowed our Sales & Accommodation Manager, Deborah, to hit the Buy Now button on some specialist items that we had long coveted – an Oxford Up to aid people in standing up from a sitting position, an AirFlo mattress, to allow adjustable firmness for those relying on an electric profiling bed and then (trumpet fanfare please) THREE hot tub hoists that enable the safe transfer of people in and out of the private hot tubs.

Previously we had just the one hot tub hoist that we shared fairly between all six properties, depending on need and availability. It made such a massive difference to those who used it, not just in the therapeutic properties of being able to use a hot tub, but the ability to use a hot tub with their family and friends at all!

Deborah joyfully contacted all of our upcoming guests, to let them know the good news and the responses back are just a prelude of what will become when they get to experience a hassle-free holiday here. All the accessibility equipment at Trevassack Holidays is provided as standard, if required, with no additional charges – why should you have to pay extra for conveniences that make your life easier? Here is just a snippet of the feedback we’ve had from the news, to date:

Hi Deborah Thank you for your email, that is brilliant news! Thank heavens for generous charities, making life better for disabled people. I am sure my granddaughter will now enjoy the hot tub. Kind regards,

Beverley

Guest

Amazing! Thanks great news and will make a massive difference to us.

Jo

Thats fabulous news thank you so much!

Deborah K

Hi, That's brilliant news! Thank you for letting us know. Many thanks,

Shannon

Hi Deborah, That's wonderful news, we can't wait for our stay. Many thanks

Karina

That is amazing, thank you so much Deborah xx

Sinead

That’s brilliant to have hoist for hot tub, we will bring our own sling. We cannot wait for our trip now. Thanks so much. Kind Regards

Siobhan

Wow, this is amazing, many thanks. It will really help our backs. Best wishes

Amanda

Thank you, great news.

Elizabeth

Super - thank you.

Stephen

Once the treasured items were in place, looking smart with their dedication plaques commemorating the donation, we were ready for the arrival of our VIPS.

On Friday 7th June, we were delighted to welcome Peter Furness, the Mark Provincial Grand Master himself, plus Jeremy Squibb (Provincial Charity Steward), Simon Trevains (Provincial Secretary), David Trevains (Provincial Registrar) along with our friend, Kevin Hicks, MBF Trustee, who had visited recently for lunch at our lakeside cafe and follow up on progress, resulting in this latest gift.

Kevin Hicks gave a short speech to present us with the cheque in front of one of the purchased hoists, situated at Clare Milne House, with the lake in the background.

Kevin’s words:

“Martin, Jakie, Emma, Katie and All from Children’s Sailing Trust.

It was about 8 years ago when a cheque was presented to the HRCST (as it was then known) by the St Michael’s Lodge No175 from Helston for £250, and it was suggested by my past Provincial Secretary, Raymond Lewry, that they may need further help.

I, as PGM at the time, and my Deputy, Peter Johns, went to the BIG HOUSE at Bonython and met Richard Nathan in very convivial surroundings in his summerhouse and overlooking his pool.

He showed me plans which showed a very ambitious plan for an old serpentine quarry “just down the road” for a centre for disabled and able-bodied children “To have fun together”.

We went down and saw a bare quarry, filled with water and it was very muddy and raining, and I thought, VERY AMBITIOUS!

On the plan was an idea for a floating classroom which fitted well with the MBF’s giving criteria and after many unsuccessful plans by you, delivery problems and COVID I had the pleasure in presenting on behalf of the MBF, a cheque for £40,000 – we can see Floaty outside, which I understand is a great success and well used.

The Provincial Grand Master Peter Furness and his team have come here today to further support this amazing project and on behalf of the Mark Benevolent Fund and our over 33,000 Mark Masons throughout England, Wales and its Districts and Lodges overseas, it gives me the greatest pleasure to hand over to the Provincial Grand Master to present this cheque for £12,159 for the purchase of disabled hoists.”

Our VIPs had a tour of the site while CEO Jakie Jewell spoke to them about the charity work and the provisions we have for special needs guests, and the group embarked on a trip aboard Floaty, the ‘boat’ they funded that is our fully accessible floating classroom that is suitable for wheelchair users.

We would very much like to thank the Master Masons and Mark Benevolent Fund for their kind support of all we do here, on behalf of Children’s Sailing Trust, Trevassack Holidays and our guests.

GOLD for Accessible & Inclusive Tourism 2023/2024

Katie Chown — Fri, 24 Nov 2023 11:59:37 +0000

Cornwall Tourism Awards 2023

The Finalists were announced in October for the 22^nd year of the Cornwall Tourism Awards and we are very proud to say that following our success last year, when our new Trevassack Lake HQ won two awards, we once again found ourselves in Truro Cathedral on 23^rd November 2023.

It’s taken three months of judging, to get to this stage of this year’s Cornwall Tourism Awards for us to learn whether we had won Gold, Silver or Bronze for our site at Trevassack Lake…

GOLD FOR CHILDREN’S SAILING TRUST’S TREVASSACK HOLIDAYS AT CORNWALL TOURISM AWARDS

GOLD FOR ACCESSIBILITY AND INCLUSIVITY

Tourism Award for Trevassack Lake

“Winners were announced at a glittering ceremony in Truro Cathedral on 23rd November, with successful businesses in many categories fast tracked into the South West Tourism Excellence Awards in March 2024 with some invited to represent Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly in the 2024 national VisitEngland Awards, in which Cornwall has often excelled.”

The award categories covered everything from dog friendly, active experiences and cafes to glamping, hotels and pubs with a Winner of Winners title, a Tourism Leadership award and special Outstanding Contribution to Tourism award also presented on the night.

Jakie Jewell, CEO, attended the ceremony;

“It was a very exciting evening, receiving validation for everything we’ve worked so hard to achieve the past few years – the site has now been open for two seasons so we are blown away at achieving the Gold award so early in our journey. Trevassack Lake is the HQ of Children’s Sailing Trust charity and our Centre of Excellence for accessible holidays and watersports – Trevassack Holidays and CST Experiences are Not-For-Profit, and open to all ages and abilities, supporting the work we do with local schoolchildren and SEND groups. The feedback we’ve had so far has been humbling. I’d like to give special thanks to The Clare Milne Trust and The Bradbury Foundation for their funding and support of two of our three high-dependency lakeside holiday lodges and to our staff and trustees for their commitment and passion every single day.

I’d also like to extend our heartfelt thanks to all involved – a huge congratulations to all of the finalists of CTA23. And we look forward to welcoming as many of you as possible to Trevassack Lake in the future.”

L-R Jakie Jewell, CEO | Deborah Lawson, Accom Manager | Katie Chown, Marketing Manager

CST Background

2023 marks the 26th year of providing local children with sailing opportunities that they wouldn’t otherwise get the chance to take part in. Through spending time out on the water with their peers, young people learn skills that help them in all aspects of life; confidence, competence, resilience and critical thinking. Whether or not they choose to continue on towards further qualifications, each child comes away with a sense of pride and achievement.

The charity relies heavily on grants and donations in order to cover running costs of operating subsidised Helford River sailing courses as well as continue providing these amazing experiences for young people for another 25 years. Therefore, the development of Trevassack Lake is a forward-thinking strategy to ensure financial stability for the Trust while benefitting the local community.

All ages and abilities are welcome at Trevassack, with the whole site being developed to be as inclusive and accessible as possible, with hoists and adapted craft allowing our experienced staff to help people with disabilities to get out on the water. The location is unique and jaw-dropping – first time visitors always have the same, amazed reaction when they round the corner from the car park and the ex-quarry opens up before them. It’s still a beautifully natural location, with an array of bird life swooping the 10-acres of freshwater – plus it’s a chemical-free site, so no noisy engines or smelly petrol to disturb the environment with everything run on solar, underwater-source heat pumps or electric.

Children’s Sailing Trust’s purpose is to provide life-affirming watersports opportunities for young people. In 2016 we acquired a disused quarry near Helston, transforming it into an accessible watersports centre with purpose-built holiday accommodation. Trevassack Lake opened in October 2021, 6 months late but to fantastic feedback from customers near and far, who were delighted to finally have fully accessible, self- catering properties in a beautiful, fully accessible location with a great big cherry on top – fully accessible watersports. Oh, and there’s a waterside café, too.

This new CST venture is far from finished but has made a tremendous start, operating as a Not-For-Profit organisation, so that money goes back into helping the charity improve young lives.

SOLVING A NEED

Trevassack Lake is the only outdoor water facility that provides DDA compliant accommodation in the UK – the site was specifically designed to help families, children and adults with a range of physical and learning difficulties feel confident they can get away again.

Grant awards from the Coastal Communities Fund and the European Agricultural Fund for Rural development, allowed for a neglected quarry with 10 acres of sheltered water to be transformed into a year-round watersports facility and this fully-accessible scheme ensures CST can continue to provide watersports that are inclusive for all.

ACCESSIBLE SELF-CATERING HOLIDAY ACCOMMODATION

High dependency holiday accommodation that includes all the required fixtures and fittings to support individuals and families with special educational needs and disabilities; Bradbury House and Clare Milne House were designed to meet Part M4(3) building regulations, making them fully-accessible units including an integrated ceiling hoist that can transfer a user from bedroom to bathroom. The kitchen is fully accessible with adjustable height hob and drop-down shelves for the wall-hung cupboards. And for 2024, dog-friendly Lizard House has had an integrated Guldmann ceiling hoist fitted, too.

There are 3 additional adapted cabins that can have mobile aids included on request.

ACCESSIBLE FACILITIES FOR ALL

Cornwall has a reputation for outstanding outdoor activities like swimming, sailing, kayaking and surfing but for many residents and holidaymakers, these activities just aren’t possible.

Accessible provisions are low so Trevassack Lake is providing the local community and beyond a place where families can try out watersports and visitors can holiday in accessible environments. The site is for both able-bodied people and those with disabilities to experience the innumerable benefits of watersports, exercise, time in nature and being together for their physical wellbeing and mental health, in a safe, level and welcoming environment. The centre delivers high quality, accessible watersports activities for all, outstanding disabled facilities and a wide range of specialist equipment with the state-of-the-art learning Centre facilitating educational development of local schools and communities.