Almost anyone who surfs will tell you that it’s not only about the purely physical skills and thrills – there are also huge mental-health benefits to getting outdoors and enjoying some time in the sea (even in Britain’s often chilly waters).
The Wave Project is a Cornwall-based charity that works to share all those benefits and more with young people. “Vulnerable young people come to us for a variety of reasons, such as bullying, abuse, trauma, autism, neglect and bereavement,” says Susie Croft, the charity’s Head of Fundraising.
“Our approach is to intervene early, treat these young people with respect and focus on a learning activity – namely, surfing!” The Wave Project started in 2011 in Newquay and now operates nationwide with locations in Bristol, London, the Isle of Wight, Tynemouth, St Andrews and Northern Ireland.
The charity now helps around 2,000 children annually – usually from the age of eight upwards – roughly a quarter of whom will be from Cornwall. The children will typically have been referred by professionals, who can include teachers, GPs and social workers. They will be invited to try a surf-therapy programme split into three phases, starting with a six-week introduction to surfing, spread over weekends with the occasional after-school class.
“Children are supported by their own personal surf mentor, who encourages them in their surfing journey, helping to build their confidence and resilience in the waves,” explains Susie. “We combine the therapeutic elements of the ocean with the adventure of surfing. By creating a culture of acceptance, we’re helping children do things they never thought possible.”
Anyone who has completed the introductory course can then become a member of the Surf Club. The aim is not only to further a young person’s surfing prowess, but – just as crucially – to continue to build their self-esteem and social skills. From the age of 14 on, children can train to become a surf mentor themselves.
“At this point, they transition from someone who’s accessing the service to somebody who’s helping to support it,” explains Fred Andrews, who started as a volunteer four years ago and now, as Regional Team Leader, oversees projects in Bude, Polzeath, Newquay, Gwithian and St Ives. “It’s very much an organic sort of life cycle.”
So what is it about surf therapy – apart from the inspirational volunteers – that can have such a positive effect on young people? Fred believes it’s a combination of factors, but we shouldn’t overlook the sheer joy that comes from catching a wave.
“Surfing sends a rush of endorphins to the brain, which is incredibly powerful in terms of allowing you to see that it is possible to find some relief from whatever difficulties you’re currently facing in your life,” he says. “Even just sitting on a surfboard looking out to sea can be hugely beneficial. Ultimately, we’re just helping to facilitate that for children who might not otherwise be able to have that experience, and in a safe and supportive way.”
Here at THE PIG-at Harlyn Bay, we couldn’t agree more. “The Wave Project is an initiative that is close to our hearts,” says Lukas Andr, our Hotel Director. “We have a lot of parents who work for us, and life isn’t always easy for them or their kids. Children’s mental wellbeing simply doesn’t get the interest or the investment it requires.”
Lukas intends to lead by example and is taking part in the six-week surf training programme that will enable him to volunteer for the charity, which receives financial donations from THE PIG-at Harlyn Bay. “It’s important for us to show that hospitality is an industry that genuinely cares for people,” he says.
“We want to support these kids as best we can, including with some smaller gestures like bringing them hot chocolate and cookies after a session. I’d love to see The Wave Project become a long-term partner for THE PIG.” To learn more, visit waveproject.co.uk
Join us at THE PIG-at Harlyn Bay for B Corp Month to hear from inspiring female voices, including Tina Beresford, Adaptive Co-ordinator & Project Assistant at The Wave Project, on how to foster accessible and inclusive surfing for women and girls. We can’t wait to see you there!
