Surf therapy in Scarborough helps to support children's mental health through the pandemic

The Department for Education, in partnership with Barnardo’s and The Wave Project, has extended further funding for the charity to run its popular Wellbeing Catch-Up sessions on beaches around England.

These Covid-safe sessions take place outside, and are available to any child aged 8 to 17 whose mental or emotional health as been impacted by the pandemic. They provide children with an opportunity to de-stress and regain confidence.

Wave Project CEO, Joe Taylor, said: “Wellbeing Catch-ups are a really simple and effective way to help children affected by the pandemic to improve their emotional wellbeing. They are an opportunity for children to get outside and enjoy themselves safely with other children.

“We are grateful to Barnardo’s and the Department for Education for extending funding for these sessions, which means they can be delivered free of charge to children across England.”

Sessions will be delivered in small groups of up to 6 children at a time, supported by a professional facilitator alongside surfing coaches, young people will use surfing and beach games to rebuild confidence and overcome anxiety.

The courses last between 7.5 and 15 hours depending on the needs of the young person.

Scarborough courses are available at Cayton Bay, North Bay and South Bay.

Parents can self-refer their children on to the sessions via the Barnardo’s See Hear Respond portal, click HERE to be directed to the site.