A new mental health programme is launching for emergency service workers in Edinburgh.
Surfwell, a UK-based not-for-profit surf therapy programme, has partnered with Lost Shore in Edinburgh to deliver a one-day trauma-informed experience for members of the Blue Light community.
The first session at Lost Shore will take place on Wednesday, June 3, with RNLI staff among those taking part.
Surfwell was established in response to growing concerns around mental health within the emergency services sector and has already supported more than 2,000 participants across the UK.
Built on lived experience, the Surfwell team is made up of current and former emergency service personnel who understand the pressures faced by those working on the frontline.
The programme combines surfing with peer support and mental health guidance, with organisers believing the activity can have a significant impact on wellbeing.
Read more
James Mallows, CEO of Surfwell Blue Light CIC, said: "We developed our programme in 2018 in response to the national mental health crisis within UK emergency services and to date we have helped over 2,000 participants from the emergency services, who have been struggling with their mental health.
"Many of the people we work with are particularly struggling with severe anxiety, burnout, stress and PTSD from incidents that they have experienced in the line of duty or from the unique challenges that come with working in the blue light sector.
"The neurological changes that occur within the brain when you overcome the challenge of surfing in a cold-water setting, alongside a structured support system delivered by blue light peers, is incredibly powerful."
Dr Jamie Marshall, social and health innovation lead at Lost Shore, said: "Through our work exploring the blue health benefits of surfing and surf therapy, we’ve seen first-hand the positive impact surfing can have on people’s confidence, resilience and overall wellbeing.
"At Lost Shore, we believe surfing should be accessible and beneficial to everyone, and we’re delighted to welcome RNLI colleagues to the resort as part of this collaboration.
"We look forward to building on the partnership to support even more members of the blue light community in the future."
Share