A nationwide project in areas with appropriate facilities, and we are fortunate to have The Wave at Easter Compton, enabling this wonderful therapy to be offered to local people with mental health difficulties.
Poor mental health impacts every area of a child’s life, the relationships they build, their academic performance and their physical health. So, our NHS-recognised therapies deliver a real difference to children who need it.
How do we do it?
We combine the therapeutic elements of the ocean with the adventure of surfing and a supportive culture of acceptance to help children do things they never thought possible.
That’s why the young people we work with enjoy higher self-esteem, reduced anxiety, better trust and frienships and have more positive futures.
Our Surf Therapy programme is a three-step intervention, designed to meet young people where they are and support them over time.
Step 1: Six-week Surf Therapy course
When young people are referred to us, they are often experiencing anxiety, low confidence or difficulties with emotional regulation. Our six-week Surf Therapy course provides a supported introduction to surfing, helping young people overcome fears around the water and feel more capable of facing challenges in the sea and beyond. Each participant is supported by a dedicated Surf Mentor, who encourages them throughout their journey, builds trust and helps develop resilience through positive experiences in the waves.
Step 2: Surf Club
When young people are referred to us, they are often experiencing anxiety, low confidence or difficulties with emotional regulation. Our six-week Surf Therapy course provides a supported introduction to surfing, helping young people overcome fears around the water and feel more capable of facing challenges in the sea and beyond. Each participant is supported by a dedicated Surf Mentor, who encourages them throughout their journey, builds trust and helps develop resilience through positive experiences in the waves.
Step 3: Progression to volunteering as Surf Mentor (where appropriate)
Once Surf Club members reach the age of 14, they may be eligible to begin training as Surf Mentors.
This pathway enables some young people to complete a powerful journey — from receiving support to helping others through Surf Therapy.
Volunteering is not the right step for everyone, and that’s okay. Some young people choose to continue as Surf Club members, focusing on their own wellbeing and development. At every stage, we work to the objectives of the young person, not our own.
Jo and Mark delivered a dynamic presentation illustrated with many action photos, anecdotes and parents appreciation. Recognition of the success of the therapy was warmly appreciated by members who wished the charity continued success.