Like the UK, South Africa is officially in lockdown and with closed beaches, children aren't able to access surf therapy sessions.
Waves for Change South Africa stands firmly behind the words of president Cyril Ramaphosa: "In the days, weeks and months ahead our resolve, our resourcefulness and our unity as a nation will be tested as never before."
Children who attend weekly surf therapy programmes on the beaches of South African will have to spend the next three weeks, at a minimum, confined to their homes or places of residence.
For most of us, our home is our safe space. For many vulnerable children, safety is often found in spaces outside of their homes. During a time in which children do not have access to schools, surf therapy, and are requested to self-isolate, we are particularly mindful that the children in our programme are at high risk.
Waves for Change recognises its duty of care to continue reaching those children with child-friendly mental health services.
Because of the circumstances we find ourselves in, Waves for Change South Africa is adapting its programme to deliver support, activities and resources over a distance and in partnership with others in the sector.
We urge those who are still in a position to do so, to please support our work by making a financial contribution or signing up as a monthly donor to help ensure our sustainability in delivering crucial services at a vulnerable time for those recovering from trauma or living with mental health challenges.
Other ways to get involved: