Exchange Chambers

Geoff Holt tells Manchester seminar about the benefits of living without disability benefits

Tuesday’s Emergency Budget saw the Disability Living Allowance come under scrutiny as the Chancellor looks for ways to cut the deficit. As the government makes plans to cut the existing allowances available, Geoff Holt MBE, the first quadriplegic to sail across the Atlantic and around Britain, spoke of the positive aspects to living without disability benefits at a serious injuries seminar organised by Exchange Chambers.

By the age of 18, Geoff had sailed in excess of 30,000 miles at sea, including three trans-Atlantic crossings and several solo voyages. His career was cut short in 1984 after a life-changing accident left him paralysed from the chest down. Diving into shallow water broke his neck causing a complete spinal cord injury and he has used a wheelchair ever since.

Speaking at the Lowry Hotel, Geoff, who was awarded an MBE in the Queen’s Birthday Honours List for “Services to Disabled Sailing” said:

“After my accident it would have been easy to live my life on disability benefit. Life is tough, particularly after an accident like mine, but that is no reason why you shouldn’t make the most out of it.  You should never give up on your aspirations.”

After his accident, Geoff was left unable to do simple things he had previously took for granted, like cleaning his teeth or brushing his hair. He now requires constant care. He has no movement below his torso, no control of his fingers and has only limited movement in his arms.

Not to be defeated, Geoff rebuilt his life, and after re-training went on to head up the regional marketing departments for two of the world’s largest accountancy firms.

The sea soon beckoned again however and in 2007 he became the first quadriplegic to sail around Britain.  More was to follow when earlier this year Geoff became the first quadriplegic to sail across the Atlantic, finishing his voyage in Tortola in the British Virgin Islands, on the same beach where he had his accident 26 years ago.

Will Waldron QC, a barrister at Exchange Chambers, chaired today’s seminar.

He commented:

“Geoff’s story is truly inspirational. He talked about overcoming adversity, maintaining a positive attitude no matter what challenges lie ahead and how the right attitude makes achievements possible.  We were delighted he was able to come to Manchester to share his thoughts with us.”

Other speakers from Exchange Chambers included Gerard Martin QC and Amanda Yip.