The Wave Project is marking five years since introducing its Surf Therapy program at The Wave Bristol. According to the organization, more than 230 children have participated in its six-week surf therapy courses since the pilot in 2020.
By the end of November 2025, the program will have worked with 138 young people this year. The Wave Project states this marks its largest annual cohort to date.
The charity reports a 23% improvement in wellbeing among participants, measured by the World Health Organization’s Wellbeing Index. This figure reflects an average movement from low well-being scores into a positive range, which The Wave Project says is statistically significant.
Over the past five years, 183 volunteers have been trained in Bristol to act as surf mentors. The organization says this helps maintain support both during sessions and in the broader community.
The Wave Project partnered with The Wave before the facility was built. The pilot session began shortly after The Wave reopened following the first COVID-19 lockdown.
“The Wave was created to use the positive power of surfing to improve lives,” said Nick Hounsfield, Founder of The Wave. “As soon as we reopened, we wanted to make sure that this purpose was central to what we were doing – and running that first Surf Therapy pilot with The Wave Project was a key part of this. It proved that the program works as effectively inland as at the coast.”
Julian Topham, CEO of The Wave, said that they are honored to support The Wave Project and proud that The Wave was the first inland surf facility to host their unique Surf Therapy courses.
“Being able to offer the program to Bristol families who would not be able to access it on the coast is game-changing, said Julian. “To see it continue to transform lives, build connections and help young people thrive is inspiring. We look forward to seeing what the next chapter holds.”
Ramon Van de Velde, CEO of The Wave Project, said the group does Surf Therapy at 16 locations around the UK, and that it has transformed lives with the simple act of catching a wave.
“Just as every wave offers the chance to try again, grow, and find balance, our work together has created new opportunities for young people in Bristol to build confidence and resilience on land as well as in the water,” said Ramon. “The Wave is a stunning place and organisation, making such a difference, and we can’t wait to see what the next 5 years will bring.”
As mentioned, 183 people have been trained to become surf mentors. For one participant it was a pivotal moment. Ava Gilbert was afraid of everything according to her mom. Surfing gave her confidence to try something new, and an ability to believe that she can move on from challenges.
“When Ava was referred to The Wave Project she was suffering from crippling anxiety, she couldn’t sleep, she wouldn’t go anywhere and struggled to try anything new,” said Ava’s mom. “Last week she took part in her school play, went to see Taylor Swift, and went surfing, stood up and caught the wave effortlessly. I couldn’t believe how far she’s come.”
Each year, many of the young people who have completed our Surf Therapy courses regularly return to take part in the Surf Club, continually supported by these volunteer surf mentors.
According to the organization, the average cost per participant is £850 ($1,130US). The Wave Project positions the program as an early intervention that supports young people before their mental health needs become acute. The charity notes that more than 500,000 young people are currently on NHS waiting lists.
To learn more or support the program, visit The Wave Project’s donation page.
