The Inland Waterways Association (IWA) is an independent, national charity campaigning for Britain’s canals and rivers, and Niblock will have primary responsibility for the organisation’s long-term strategy.
She is an experienced narrowboater and a qualified helmsman and joins IWA from the UK Council for Psychotherapy, where she was chief executive.
“Supporting and regenerating our inland waterways is one of the top talking points in the UK,” she says. “It’s no wonder, given the well-documented role that our rivers, estuaries and canals play in our economy, ecology and wellbeing.
“Canals and rivers are invaluable assets which help the country’s economic recovery, save on NHS budgets, connect communities and help climate change resilience.
“I’ve personally benefited from the waterways all my life, and I am determined to place them centre stage in the hearts and minds of parliamentarians, the media and the public.
“My top priority is the Protect Our Waterways campaign to ensure that all our inland waterways are adequately funded to deliver all the benefits detailed in our Waterways for Today report.”
Speaking about Niblock’s appointment as Inland Waterways Association CEO, Les Etheridge, national chair of IWA says: “We are very happy to welcome Sarah to the role. Having someone with her experience will drive forward our work to champion waterways for all. As our Protect Our Waterways campaign gathers momentum, this is a critical moment to join and lead the organisation from our successful campaigning past into a bright future where everyone recognises the benefits our incredible waterways network offers.
“Her enthusiasm, professionalism, and depth of experience means she will be a great asset, and we look forward to welcoming and working with her.”
