According to the NHS, one in six children had a diagnosed mental health issue in July 2020 compared to one in nine in 2017. Issues including anxiety, loneliness, bullying and isolation have been compounded by the pandemic resulting in a mental health crisis amongst our young people.
The Wave Project is a charity, that works closely with volunteers from the local community to offer surf-therapy* to young people struggling with their mental, physical or emotional wellbeing.
Supported over 200 young people last year
The project on the Isle of Wight began with a pilot scheme in 2015, and since then, has grown significantly. Utilising the Island’s outstanding natural beauty as a back drop for our evidence based therapy, in 2021 we supported over 200 of the Island’s young people.
Data shows** that young people come away from their six week course at Wave Project with more resilience and feeling more confident, positive and better able to make friends.
James: Shining a light on the issues of mental-health
Abbie James, Isle of Wight Wave Project Coordinator,
“Here on the Isle of Wight, we have worked with over 400 children and 80 volunteer surfmentors – some of whom started as participants themselves.
“It’s really positive that the High Sheriff is committed to shining a light on the issues of mental health on the Island and we were delighted when he commissioned the film showing the journey of a few of our young volunteers.
“The film will help us raise awareness of our charity and further funding to enable us to support as many young people as we can each year.”
Attrill: Tackling mental health crisis amongst young people an absolute priority
James Attrill , High Sheriff of the Isle of Wight,
“Tackling the mental health crisis amongst young people is an absolute priority. I was deeply impressed with how the Wave Project is using the natural environment to improve mental health. The Island’s Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, who helped fund this film, provides a huge opportunity for us all to improve our well-being using nature.
“This film, along with two others we have commissioned, are available for all schools, youth groups, volunteers groups and charities to help promote this important message.”
Grogan: Vitally important work for young people on the Island
Richard Grogan, IW AONB Lead Officer,
“Whether you walk in the woods, hike across the downs or swim in the sea, the beautiful landscapes on the Isle of Wight can provide opportunities to relax and reduce stress and helps all to reflect what is important in life.
“The Isle of Wight AONB is pleased to be working with the High Sheriff, and many and varied projects, on this vitally important work for young people on the Island.”
The Wave Project Isle of Wight Film
The film was made by Tony Steyger at People Media Productions and is one of a series of three, commissioned by the Isle of Wight High Sheriff’s Trust to promote well-being and mental health amongst children and young people.
Wave Project Isle of Wight from TheWaveProject on Vimeo.
To donate to the work of the Wave Project on the Island, please visit The Wave Project’s Just Giving page.
The Isle of Wight High Sheriff’s Trust awards small but vital grants to benefit Island charities and community groups with an emphasis on the needs of the young, the elderly and crime prevention.
Donations can be made at the High Sheriff’s Just Giving page.
*Surf-Therapy: the long term impact
**The positive impact of structured courses on the wellbeing of young people.
News shared by Abbie on behalf of The Wave Project. Ed
Image: © People Media Productions
