“My PTSD won’t go away. But Surf Therapy helps me find a way forward.” - Laurence Winmill
Every Sunday, Laurence Winmill paddles out into the open sea with Surf Therapy - a community project that uses the power of the ocean to support mental health.
Thanks to National Lottery funding, the project helps people find calm, build resilience, and connect with others facing similar challenges.
Laurence’s life seemed full of success. He ran several businesses and gave motivational talks. But inside, he was struggling.
When the Covid pandemic hit, he was forced to close two businesses. On top of that, his father died suddenly. Laurence buried himself in work and never allowed himself to grieve.
By 2024, everything collapsed. He was diagnosed with PTSD and was battling anxiety and depression. He tried therapy and medication, but something was still missing – until he found Surf Therapy.
Surf Therapy was founded by Phil Owen, who discovered surfing helped him through his own depression. Realising the ocean’s power to heal, he realised could help others facing similar struggles.
Today, the project supports:
For beginners like Laurence, there was no pressure to stand up on the board. You don’t even need to stand up on the board. He could paddle, catch a small wave, or just relax. The sessions were supportive, encouraging, and judgement-free. For the first time in years, Laurence felt calm.
Surf Therapy has helped heal my brain. All the debris in my head washes away. My PTSD won’t go away, but it helps me manage myself. Surf Therapy is truly amazing.
Funding from Sport Wales and the National Lottery – totalling £5,658 – helped to buy boards, wetsuits, and other equipment. This funding allows Phil and his team to reach even more people.
The sessions combine:
Sitting on his board, waiting for a wave, Laurence feels connected to nature. The wide beaches and rolling waves help him put his worries into perspective. Surf Therapy has become a vital part of his recovery.
Thanks to National Lottery funding, we can buy equipment and help more people.
Surf Therapy is a place where people connect, share, and support each other. People leave the water feeling stronger, calmer, and more resilient.
Laurence is one of many whose lives have been transformed along the shoreline. With a dedicated team and essential funding, Surf Therapy is proving that even small waves can make a big difference.
Thinking of supporting people in your community with their mental health? The Be Active Wales Fund could support your club to provide life-changing opportunities, just like Surf Therapy.