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IWA’s Vision, Mission, Positioning Statement and Values

plus IWA’s Strategic Objectives

Our Vision

A thriving, growing network of sustainable inland waterways for everyone

Our Mission

To be a powerful champion of inland waterway causes, to protect and expand our waterways for the millions of people who enjoy and benefit from using them

Our Positioning Statement

It is our spirit, determination and vision that will protect and restore our waterways for future generations to discover and enjoy.
We champion Britain’s canals and rivers.

Our Values

Our six core brand values underpin all that we do. They are what drive the decisions we make and the outlook that we take.

  • Visionary – Our vision is a thriving, growing network of sustainable inland waterways for everyone.
  • Dedicated – Our volunteers devote their time, energy and effort to benefit the waterways.
  • Professional – At IWA we listen, we collaborate and we share our ideas and expertise with respect and understanding.
  • Passionate – Our spirit and enthusiasm inspires others to help make our waterways the best they can be.
  • Determined – We set out on our path knowing that it will not be easy, and we do not let this deter us.
  • Trustworthy – Our motives are always focused on what is best for the waterways.

Strategic Objectives

Three strategic objectives underpin our work:

  1. To campaign for the protection and regeneration of inland waterways for everyone to enjoy.
  2. To support the transformation of previously navigable waterways into places for leisure, living and business.
  3. To establish waterways as an environmental asset and foreground this in our campaigning as part of the response to localised climate change.

To help us deliver our objectives, we have developed five strategic enablers:

  1. Develop campaigns that capture support of government and public.
  2. Develop a centre of excellence in canal restoration.
  3. Develop our volunteer base.
  4. Develop our environmental expertise to advise waterway users, restorers and authorities.
  5. Develop a reliable and secure funding base.

Approved by trustees – 5th April 2025