The Wave Project in Newquay Reopens – Have You Checked It Out?

Tackling Neoprene Waste and Supporting Young People’s Mental Health

The Wave Project’s Newquay shop officially reopened on 7th April with a fresh redesign – but this transformation is about more than just aesthetics. The refurbishment, supported by the Cornwall and Isles of Scilly Good Growth Programme and SUEZ, marks a major step forward for the charity’s expanding Pre-loved Wetsuit Scheme.

Brighter, More Accessible – and More Purposeful

With a brighter and more accessible layout, the new shop space makes it easier than ever for customers to browse high-quality second-hand surfing gear. Major structural changes have created a more welcoming and functional environment, with every sale supporting the Wave Project’s life-changing Surf Therapy programmes.

These programmes help children and teenagers build confidence and resilience, using the ocean and other blue spaces to support mental wellbeing.

Ramon Van de Velde, Chief Executive Officer at The Wave Project, said:

“We are incredibly excited to reopen our Newquay shop with a fresh new look and an even bigger commitment to sustainability. By expanding our Pre-loved Wetsuit Scheme, we ensure that every purchase made funds vital Surf Therapy programmes for young people across the UK. The demand for mental health support has never been higher, and we are proud to be part of the solution – helping young people thrive and find a sense of belonging.”

Fighting Waste, One Wetsuit at a Time

Cornwall produces nearly half of the UK’s 380 tonnes of non-recyclable neoprene waste. To help tackle this, the Wave Project now accepts wetsuit donations directly at its Newquay shop, or via dedicated recycling bins at local household waste centres.

Each donated item is sorted, inspected and prepared for reuse, giving hundreds of wetsuits – and now even surfboards – a second life.

Mark Hillson, PFI General Manager for Cornwall at SUEZ, said:

“We’re delighted to be supporting such a sustainable initiative that is also doing such fantastic work in local communities through the Surf Therapy programmes. The new shop designs are quite inspiring and we’re looking forward to seeing the success of this helping to support more young people.”

A Vital Alternative for Cornwall’s Young People

The need for mental health support in Cornwall is growing. In the 12 months to March 2024, nearly 9,000 children and young people accessed NHS-funded Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services in the county. Referrals at Cornwall Partnership NHS Foundation Trust have nearly tripled since 2019, reaching close to 12,000 in 2024.

The Wave Project offers a positive, alternative approach – giving young people a safe, supportive space to grow, build friendships and benefit from time in the sea.

Visitors Welcome

The reopening celebration brought together supporters and partners, including Cornwall Council and SUEZ UK. In a message on social media, the Wave Project team said:

“A huge thank you to everyone who joined us to celebrate, including our amazing supporters and partners like Cornwall Council and SUEZ UK who made this transformation possible.”

Whether you’re in town or passing through, the team encourages you to pop into the shop and check out the new space. Every purchase helps fund mental health support for children and teens.

To learn more about the Wave Project and how it supports young people through surf therapy, visit www.waveproject.co.uk.