Inclusion – Adaptive Surfing For Everyone

 

At The Wave Project, we believe everyone should have the opportunity to experience the joy and freedom of the sea.

Over the past 15 years as a registered charity, we’ve learned that for some people with physical disabilities, the opportunity to surf is about experience and enjoyment, rather than committing to a structured course. With this in mind, we developed our Adaptive Surfing programme.

Adaptive Surfing offers personalised surf sessions for people with disabilities, removing barriers and creating an experience that is as authentic, empowering and enjoyable as possible.

Our Adaptive Hubs

Adaptive Surfing sessions are delivered by specially trained surf coaches, supported by our dedicated and experienced volunteers.

Each session is booked individually, recognising that every person has unique needs and may require different levels of support. Our aim is to adapt the environment, equipment and support — not the individual — so everyone can access surfing safely and with dignity.

We run five special Adaptive Surfing Hubs in Watergate Bay, Cornwall; St Ives, Cornwall; Croyde, North Devon; Scarborough, North Yorkshire; and Sandown, Isle of Wight for people with disabilities who want to try surfing, but don’t necessarily want to take part in a Surf Therapy course.

Our Adaptive Hubs provide:

  • Fully qualified adaptive surf coaches

  • Adapted surf equipment, including seated boards, prone boards and beach wheelchairs

  • Adjustable wetsuits designed for comfort and ease of changing

  • Level or step-free access to the beach

  • Accessible toilets and changing facilities

  • Disabled parking spaces nearby with step-free access