The Wave Project and Saltrock Launch Landmark Partnership to Transform Young Lives Through Surf Therapy
Since 2010, more than 19,000 children and young people have accessed Surf Therapy through The Wave Project. For many, it has become a lifeline. Now, after nearly a decade of partnership, Saltrock is making its biggest commitment yet to the charity, pledging £200,000 over three years to help transform more young lives through Surf Therapy.
At a time when 1 in 5 young people are struggling with their mental health and over 500,000 children are waiting for support, early intervention has never been more important. The Wave Project’s evidence-based Surf Therapy programmes harness the power of movement, connection and blue spaces to help young people feel calmer, more connected and more hopeful.
Since 2022, Saltrock and The Wave Project have built a partnership rooted in a shared belief in the power of the ocean to improve wellbeing. This new three-year strategic commitment marks an exciting new chapter, with Saltrock providing direct funding, expanding fundraising through its Pennies scheme and collaborating on co-branded campaigns, products and storytelling to help grow awareness and impact nationwide.
Ramon Van de Velde, Chief Executive Officer at The Wave Project comments: “At The Wave Project, we see every day how the right support, at the right time, can change the trajectory of a young person’s life. Sometimes that looks like a young person returning to school, making a friend for the first time in months, or simply believing in themselves again.
“We’re hugely grateful to Saltrock for their continued support and for the partnership we’ve built over the past eight years. Their commitment is an investment in young people, their futures and the lasting impact Surf Therapy can have in communities across the UK.”
Sarah Loder, Marketing Manager at Saltrock: “At Saltrock, we’ve seen first-hand the difference The Wave Project makes to young people and their families. We’re incredibly proud to be building on this relationship through a long-term commitment that not only raises vital funds, but also helps increase awareness of the important work they do across the UK. This partnership reflects our values as a brand and our belief in the positive power of the ocean and community.”
The impact of Surf Therapy is best understood through the young people and families who experience it firsthand. A parent of a Surf Therapy participant in Dorset recently shared: “What you and the volunteers do is amazing. It’s the highlight of the week for the boys, school is a big challenge for them but surfing resets it all. Thank you so much for all you do.”
As a national charity, The Wave Project relies on the support of partners, fundraisers and donors to continue delivering Surf Therapy to children and young people who need it most.
Together, Saltrock and The Wave Project are helping ensure more children and young people can access the support they need, when they need it most.