Our Story
Founded by Gulf War Veteran Rich Emerson, Surf Action has been established in Cornwall since 2009 and is a registered Charity (Registered Charity no: 1140191) in England & Wales.
An award winning and pioneering project, Surf Action use water based activities such as Surfing, and the coastal environment as a tool to help veterans and their families deal with the ongoing problems of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Isolation Physical Injury and general Wellbeing.
Since the 19th Century and the Victorian Age coastal resorts has been used as a location for convalescing combat veterans, whilst surfing was introduced to Cornish troops both during and after the First World War as a means to forget the trauma of battle. In fact our latest residential in Bude was held at a former RAF convalescent home for wounded pilots.
Surf Action have established twice-weekly meetings with sufferers from Cornwall and further afield to offer them and their families a platform on which to interact. These meetings are proving indispensable in providing support on social welfare issues, relieving isolation, integration in the community and camaraderie.
At each meeting they organise activities such as surfing, body-boarding, paddle boarding, snorkelling, coastal walking, fishing, nature walks and photography. When the water is warmer and the waves are good they encourage everyone to step in the sea and try surfing.
The ocean is a very powerful resource, whether being amongst nature or a simple respite from everyday issues, Surf Action have seen people smile for the first time in many years, father and son re-bond and families achieve something as a family unit and not individually.
In addition to the activities Surf Action offer training days, personal development and goal setting with the aim of signposting sufferers and partners allowing them to move on to the next, more positive step in their lives.
Surf Action is also engaging the partners and families to establish what is missing in today’s battle with PTSD and the strategies. The charity operates a drop-in centre, art studio, therapy room and many other activities, this is all adding to greater provision and support for veterans and families. By encouraging a social network for the veterans and importantly their families, Surf Action are creating a community that is more than just riding waves with friends, but a bond, and a means to help others.
Please call us if you require anymore information on 01209 210350
You can visit our website at: www.surfaction.co.uk
