Wave Project is fun, innovative and unique! Our combination of 1:1 mentorship and the therapeutic elements of surfing and the ocean, helps young people struggling with their mental health. Through evidence-based and inclusive early intervention surf therapy programmes, we improve confidence, resilience and emotional regulation in the children that need it most.
We are the charity changing lives through surfing. In NI, 1 in 4 children suffer with poor mental health; teenage suicide rates have increased by 35% since 2021 and hospital admissions for eating disorders among children have increased by 90% in 5 years.
We work with children at risk of mental ill health because of trauma, isolation or anxiety; including depression, anxiety, suicidal thoughts, self-harm, bullying, abuse, trauma, autism, disability, socially isolated, eating disorders, neglect, bereavement and refugees.
Since 2017 the age of our referrals have gotten younger and younger – particularly suicide attempts and self-harm. In a world of increasing societal pressure, we are seeing young people with alarmingly low self-esteem and feelings of self-worth.
Many of them have never stepped foot on a beach, help us to instil confidence and FUN back into their lives and let them be children again.
Website: The Wave Project
Instagram: @waveprojectni
Facebook: @waveprojectni