SUPPORT has been pledged to a surf therapy charity with a generous donation.

Wooden Spoon, the children's charity of rugby, has announced its support for The Wave Project and its surf therapy programmes with a donation of more than £30,000.

This significant grant will enable the pioneering initiative to continue its vital work across Dorset and the Isle of Wight, harnessing the power of surfing to help young people suffering from mental health challenges build confidence, reduce anxiety and improve their overall well-being.

The Wave Project has a proven track record of profoundly impacting the lives of young people through its NHS-recognised interventions.

By providing a fun and supportive environment, the charity empowers participants to develop resilience, cultivate social skills and experience a sense of accomplishment.

The Wooden Spoon's funding has been instrumental in supporting this life-changing initiative across the UK, ensuring that young people can access to this unique resource.

Barry Monahan at Wooden Spoon said: "We are thrilled to support The Wave Project and its expansion.

“Mental health challenges among young people are a growing concern, and we believe that surf therapy offers a creative and effective way to address these issues.

"By supporting The Wave Project, we aim to make a positive impact on the lives of many young individuals in communities up and down the country."

Ramon Van de Velde, chief executive officer of The Wave Project, said: "We are incredibly grateful for the Wooden Spoon's generous support and belief in the transformative power of surf therapy.

"Time and again, we witness our interventions' profound impact on children and young people - replacing anxiety with accomplishment, insecurity with confidence and new-found resilience.

"This funding will enable us to provide even more children and young people with the opportunity to participate in our programmes across the UK."