There is a crisis in child mental health.

Children and young people who are seriously unwell – including those who have self harmed or considered suicide – are failing to receive the support needed from the NHS. With one-third of all referrals for children’s mental health services denied help, the surge in demand is putting increasing strain on the NHS. Waiting times vary greatly, with average first appointment waiting times ranging from three days to an unacceptable three years.

Currently 1 in 6 children are struggling to cope.

The Wave Project in Devon offers a viable solution for children and young people in the area. Every year we aim to support 130 children and young people through our surf therapy intervention. We run surf therapy from Croyde and Westward Ho, Bigbury-on-sea, Goodrington and Sidmouth beaches, and support children from the local area including children from across Devon from Cities, Moors and Coastal Communities. Children and young people come to us for a variety of reasons including neglect, bullying, bereavement and are referred to us from various places including Devon Council, Schools, GP surgeries. After their 6 week programme the children and young people show significant improvements in their self-confidence, resilience, self esteem and their ability to build trust with other children and adults. We continue their journey with us through our follow on intervention ‘Surf Club’ which the children and young people can access for as long as they need to.

Children and young people like Amy* who recently completed her 6 week surf therapy programme. Amy had been struggling with severe anxiety and depression for 3 years before joining us. Her mother told us “At her worst she would rarely leave her bedroom, let alone the house. It was tough seeing our once happy, energetic, witty daughter become miserable, depressed, unable to sleep, unable to go to school, unable to see her friends. It was truly heartbreaking and has taken a toll on all of us. On her first session she was extremely anxious and nearly didn't make it through the doors, but when she did, she was greeted by the friendliest, easy-going people that 'just got it!' There were no expectations, no pressure was put on her, it was all just very chill - just what she needed. Since that first session she has embraced each session and grown more confident every time. I can't praise the Wave Project enough, they absolutely have gone above and beyond and I am so grateful to them for doing what they do and for putting a smile back on my girl's face, seeing her laughing, high-fiving and just engaging with others is absolutely awesome!! Amy's mental health has improved massively. A massive thank you to the team - you truly have made a huge positive impact in our family's life!"

So far we have helped 64 children and young people but are still aiming to help another 56 who are in need of our help before the end of the season.

We are appealing to our community, friends, volunteers and supporters to help us raise the funds we need to continue our work.

We need to raise £5000 this Summer to be able to continue to respond to the children’s mental health crisis. Anything we raise will go directly to helping children and young people in Devon.

Without your support we simply won’t be able to reach as many children and young people who need our help this year.

Thank you so much for your support!

The Wave Project Devon team

*Name changed to protect identity