A Bournemouth-based surf therapy programme is helping children with disabilities and mental health challenges to build confidence through ocean activities.
Wild and Free Therapy offers weekly sessions combining surfing and blue space therapy to promote healing and build community connections. Participants meet on the Bournemouth beach, where each person engages in surf lessons designed to accommodate their individual physical and mental health needs.
Emily Sutton, director of the programme, said: “The concept is to provide access to the sea and the wonderful opportunities and activities you can do on the sea.”
WFT, which was founded in 2022, is predominantly for children and young people who have disabilities, neurodiversity, and mental health problems, Sutton said, “as well as their families”.
All WFT sessions are structured to ensure safety and inclusivity. The programme emphasises the therapeutic benefits of surfing, which include physical exercise, social interaction, and a connection to nature. Trained instructors work closely with participants and volunteers, offering adaptive equipment and personalised guidance.
Asked about her motivation for founding WFT, Emily said the inspiration came from personal experiences.
“My 11-year-old son has multiple disabilities,” she said. “He’s always found that being in the water, and being by the sea has been so joyful and therapeutic.
“It has unlocked so many connections and opportunities for his physical, mental, and emotional health, which made us thrive more as a family. I recognised that this could be the case for other families as well.”
The programme is designed to be inclusive, welcoming people of all abilities and backgrounds.
For Sam Witherington, whose children participate in the programme, the impact has been significant.
“We sat at the beach and watched them do an activity,” she said. “It was one of the first times we haven’t been physically involved. For me and their dad, it was a rare experience — really relaxing and memorable.”
Scientific research increasingly supports the therapeutic benefits of water. Studies indicate that aquatic environments can enhance physical rehabilitation, reduce anxiety, and improve overall mental health.
John Tutton, the lead surf coach at WFT, said: “I am doing a job that I love. Seeing the children grow and gain confidence is quite special. I find it really inspiring and humbling.”
Wild and Free Therapy seeks volunteers to provide more opportunities for those in need. If you would like to be involved, email wildandfreetherapy@outlook.com.
