A new wave of support has emerged for young people in West Wales as the surf therapy project, Tonic Surf, received a significant funding boost. The initiative, which utilizes surfing and the beach environment as tools for recovery, is designed for children and young adults aged 14 to 25. With a grant of £3,000 from the Community Cohesion Small Grants Fund, Tonic Surf aims to help participants build resilience and combat feelings of isolation.
The funding has enabled Tonic Surf to launch a comprehensive 10-week surf therapy course for ten service users across Pembrokeshire, Carmarthenshire, and Ceredigion. This innovative program is delivered in partnership with Walkin on Water Surf School and Hywel Dda’s Early Intervention in Psychosis (EIP) service. Participants are engaged in weekly surf sessions at the scenic Poppit Sands, located near St Dogmaels and Cardigan.
Two qualified surf coaches and staff from the EIP team support the participants during each session, ensuring a safe and enriching experience. Beyond surf instruction, the project emphasizes the therapeutic benefits of spending time outdoors and connecting with nature. Participants have the opportunity to learn new skills at their own pace while engaging in physical activity.
The impact of the project extends beyond individual skill development. By fostering social connections among service users, Tonic Surf provides essential coping strategies and supports the overall recovery process.
Cerian Morris, a Community Psychiatric Nurse with the EIP, highlighted the positive outcomes of the program, stating, “This initiative allows young people to not only learn to surf but to also find a supportive community.” Her insights reflect the broader goals of Tonic Surf, which aims to create a safe environment for participants to thrive.
Kay Howells, Community Cohesion Coordinator for the Mid and South West Wales Community Cohesion Team, also expressed her enthusiasm for the project. She stated, “The funding from the Community Cohesion Small Grants Fund plays a crucial role in promoting diversity and enhancing community relationships.”
Tonic Surf operates in multiple locations, including Newgale in Pembrokeshire and Borth in Ceredigion. The project caters to a diverse range of individuals, including students on the mental health spectrum, veterans coping with PTSD, and those struggling with substance misuse. By harnessing the power of the ocean and surf culture, Tonic Surf creates a unique space for healing and personal growth.
As the program unfolds, Tonic Surf continues to demonstrate the profound impact of surf therapy on the lives of young people in West Wales. With ongoing support, the project is poised to expand its reach and further enhance the well-being of its participants.
