New Surf Therapy programme to support youth wellbeing across Donegal

A groundbreaking surf therapy PEACEPLUS programme designed to support youth mental health and wellbeing has been launched in Donegal, bringing together young people from diverse backgrounds through the healing power of ocean-based activities. 

The "We Can Believe" programme, delivered by Liquid Therapy, will provide specialised surf therapy interventions to over 110 participants. This initiative falls under Theme 3: Building Respect for All Cultural Identities, which is part of Donegal’s PEACEPLUS Local Action Plan. The plan is providing €7,635,395.00 in funding to support the delivery of 32 peacebuilding projects over the next two years, from 2025 to 2027. 

At the launch, Cathaoirleach of Donegal County Council, Paul Canning, praised the programme’s vision and impact: “What makes this initiative so special is not just its ambition, but its heart. ‘We Can Believe’, delivered by the team at Liquid Therapy, combines the power of surfing, nature, and community to create meaningful change. It’s designed not only to support individual growth, but to foster connection, inclusion, and wellbeing across our wider community.” 

Surfing, especially when accessible to all abilities and backgrounds, plays a vital role in promoting mental and physical health. This programme goes further—using Donegal’s beautiful coastline as a platform for personal development, environmental awareness, and social connection.” 

Tom Losey, CEO and Founder of Liquid Therapy, added: "This initiative offers a fresh and innovative approach to youth wellbeing by integrating the calming effects of blue space environments with ocean-based activities and opportunities for meaningful social interaction. Our evidence-driven model has consistently demonstrated positive outcomes in youth mental health and social engagement. Thanks to PEACEPLUS funding, we’re excited to extend this transformative programme to even more young people.” 

The programme will deliver 16 surf therapy interventions, each consisting of five to six sessions lasting up to three hours. Over two years, it will facilitate 96 sessions and 2,880 hours of contact time. It also includes diversity awareness sessions and a respite element for parents and carers, promoting shared experiences and social cohesion.

By leveraging Donegal’s stunning coastline, the programme aims to deliver personal development, inclusion in sport, and wellbeing outcomes for participants from a wide range of backgrounds—including those from isolated communities, minority groups, people with disabilities, and disadvantaged or culturally diverse populations. 

Wendy McCarry, parent of a Liquid Therapy participant and Owner and Principal Consultant at Third Sector Solutions, shared her personal experience at the launch: "Organisations like Liquid Therapy are vital, I remember when Ava was small she was always in the car with her brothers while I brought them places, but there was nowhere for her." 

She further added: "Liquid Therapy is an incredible organisation. A role model of true Community Spirit, of all that is good in our world. Bringing the joy of the ocean to everyone, Ava absolutely loves the water, she has a freedom of movement that few opportunities give her, when she is here, I watch her smile, I watch her become completely animated with excitement. It lifts my heart like you wouldn’t believe.” 

Liquid Therapy works closely with local communities and stakeholder organisations to identify and recruit participants who would benefit most. Partners include schools, youth groups, health services, and specialist support organisations. 

This initiative is a testament to the power of community, nature, and innovation in building a more inclusive and supportive future for our youth. Donegal County Council is proud to support such a meaningful programme and looks forward to the positive impact it will have across the county.