The first empirical research on the impact of surf therapy in Sierra Leone was published in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health. The study, carried out in association with the Messeh Leone Trust, Edinburgh Napier University, Wave Alliance with the Waves for Change, highlights the significant positive impact of surf therapy on youth mental well-being across multiple sites. The mixed methods study also highlights how services can be further optimized in future surf therapy delivery and provides a foundation for ongoing research. The research represents the first peer reviewed impact assessment of surf therapy, not only in Sierra Leone, but also the first within the continent of Africa and a global first in any post-conflict context. A special acknowledgement should go to the featured youth and community development organisations who piloted surf therapy in Sierra Leone: Moseray Fadika Trust Foundation, Young Leaders Sierra Leone, United Sierra Leone Initiative, Pipul Pikin Foundation and Job Opportunities for Youth (JOY).
Link to published study below:
NOTES TO EDITORS:
The Wave Alliance initiative supports passionate people and local communities in bringing evidence-based positive well-being to their local coastal communities through locally-owned surf therapy programmes. The Alliance is collaborating with various local and international organisations, and government. This is a charitable voluntary programme. The Messeh Leone Trust and partner organisations did not receive any fun§ding or financial contributions for this work.
Comments