A Newquay surf therapy charity is launching a campaign to raise £20,000 to support children and young people struggling with mental health challenges.

The Wave Project in Fore Street is participating in the Big Give's Kind2Mind match-funding campaign during Mental Health Awareness Week between May 14 and 21.

Mental health concerns are reportedly on the rise among young people in the UK.

The team say one in five children experience social, emotional or mental health difficulties, and rates of teenage suicide and eating disorders have seen alarming increases in recent years.

This year's Mental Health Awareness Week theme is Connect with Nature, a fitting focus for The Wave Project, which helps children and young people aged eight to 18 improve their wellbeing through the transformative power of surfing and connecting with the ocean.

The Wave Project’s fundraising campaign will help support 20 children and young people across the UK struggling with their mental health through participation in their award-winning programmes.

The Kind2Mind campaign will be matched up to £10,000, enabling the charity to reach double the number of young people in need.

Ramon Van de Velde, the chief executive officer at The Wave Project, said: "To mark this year’s Mental Health Awareness Week, The Wave Project is taking part in the match-funding Kind2Mind campaign, organised by the Big Give.

“Our team and volunteers see first-hand what a difference surf therapy can make.

“The children who take part in our evidence-based programmes demonstrate significantly increased confidence, resilience and self-esteem, as well as a more positive outlook on life.

“The current cost-of-living crisis only adds to the challenges young people face, so these life-changing interventions are needed now more than ever.

"We are delighted to be part of the Kind2Mind campaign and appeal to the public this Mental Health Awareness Week. Donations of any size can be doubled, and they will ensure The Wave Project continues to have such a positive impact on the lives of thousands of children and young people across the UK."

To support The Wave Project's vital work, visit The Wave Project’s Kind2Mind campaign page between May 14 to 21 to donate.