We, the residents of New Islington Marina in Ancoats and members of the wider Manchester community, are writing to express our unwavering support for Dave, a long-time resident of our marina. Dave has lived on his narrowboat at New Islington Marina for 13 years, which grants him 'Grandfather rights' to remain here. Dave is a cherished member of our community, and we believe he is being unjustly forced to leave.

Dave has disabilities, including autism and ADHD, as well as physical health difficulties resulting from his service in the army. These conditions necessitate a stable and specific way of life, which he has found on his narrowboat in our marina. Dave's presence here is not only a matter of his right to stay but also a matter of compassion and fairness. 

Dave has been an invaluable advocate for our community. When our bills were unfairly increased, Dave was the one who spoke up on our behalf, challenging the marina's attempts to privatise and financially exploit us. His knowledge and understanding of the situation helped educate us and protect our interests. He has protected residents from violence and he has been on hand to calm any volatile situation that the marina brings (particularly when it floods with many unpredictable characters on a sunny Manchester day that are not so community spirited).

Dave is always willing to lend a helping hand. His extensive knowledge about boats has been a great resource for many new boaters who have sought his assistance. Boats would be under the water if it wasn't for Dave. Dave's helpfulness and willingness to share his expertise have made him an integral part of our community. 

The lack of diversity within New Islington Marina is becoming a growing concern. If Waterpride, the marina management company, succeeds in evicting one of our oldest and most valued members, we fear that the heart of our community will be irreparably damaged. This action does not reflect the inclusive and diverse values that Manchester stands for.

In Manchester, and particularly within the New Islington Marina and Ancoats communities, we stand together to represent a diverse group of people with different strengths, backgrounds, and opinions. While none of us are perfect, we believe in supporting one another and standing up against injustice. This action from Waterpride is clearly discriminatory, and we are disgusted that Waterpride have behaved this way, when we know they can do better... 

We are committed to doing everything we can to support Dave in his court hearing against Waterpride (early August). We stand with individuals with disabilities, whether they are visible or not. We will not let the heart of our community disappear. We stand with Dave.

SIGN THIS PETITION:

to show your support for Dave's right to remain in his home at New Islington Marina and to enable the following:

1) Immediate Cessation of Eviction Proceedings

2) Eradication of Accumulated Rent Costs - which will no doubt have added to his already existing condition of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder 

3) Protection Against Discrimination

4) Support for Diverse Communities

5) Recognition of Grandfather Rights

Thank you for reading!

 

#WeStandWithDave
#SaveOurCommunity
#EndDiscrimination
#ProtectGrandfatherRights
#SupportDisabledVeterans
#WaterprideFairness
#NewIslingtonStrong
#CommunityUnity
#InclusiveManchester
#JusticeForDave