WWTW North East Surf Camp
In partnership with South Shields Surf and Sea ( C ) Company, kindly funded by Inspire South Shields, WWTW NE launched our first 6-week North-East Veterans Surf programme.
The programme will run every Wednesday until the 20th
of October 2021, free of charge to veterans, as well as their partners and
family members. We also hope to roll out programmes in 2022 and 2023.
A number of veterans took part in our first session
including Gary and his son, Arran. Following the session WWTW received a call
from Gary’s wife, who wanted us to know how much fun Gary and Arran had had at
the surfing session – apparently, they didn’t stop talking about it – she said
it was the happiest she had seen them both in a long time.
Gary was talking about getting himself a surfboard – he said
he felt amazing when he was in the water.
Sea Company is a not for profit, military veterans' surf
therapy group lead by Matt Blair. Matt served in the Paras between 2007-2016
and moved to South Shields in 2018 where he discovered his passion for
surfing. He found surfing a great tool to help focus and calm his mind
with the added benefit of keeping him fit. Sea Company was born out of
Matt’s desire to share with other veterans the benefits of surfing and spending
time in the water. South Shields Surf CIC share Matt’s enthusiasm for surf
therapy and provide a brilliant base, as well as extensive surf knowledge.
Gemma McDonald, WWTW, said “It’s great to
collaborate with individuals who share our passion to support the ex-service
community. The guys are coming out of the water completely
re-energised. They’re already reporting benefits to both their mental and
physical health, all while gaining a new hobby at the same time.”
If you are interested in participating in any of our free
surfing sessions, please email gemma.mcdonald@wwtw.org.uk