The Happy Sea Co.

Adaptive Surf Therapy

Welcome to The Happy Sea Company.
I'm Evie and I run adaptive surf therapy sessions in Saltburn-by-the-Sea for individuals with additional needs, learning disabilites and mental health challenges.The Happy Sea Co. is partnered with Saltburn Surf School and located right on the Lower prom on Saltburn Beach front. I offer supportive, inclusive, and person-centred sessions, tailored to the individual and their support needs. At the core, sessions are designed to enable participants to enjoy the sea safely, build confidence, develop new skills, connect with the natural environment, and most importantly, have fun!As a purpose-driven social enterprise, health and wellbeing are at the heart of The Happy Sea Co. and a belief that everyone, regardless of ability, should have the opportunity to access the physical and emotional benefits of the sea, achievable through expert support.

✓ ISA Adaptive Surf Instructor
✓ Surfing England Affiliated
✓ RLSS Beach Lifeguard
✓ Enhanced DBS Checked
✓ Safeguarding Trained
✓ Fully Insured

My daughter had surfing sessions with Evie and they became the highlight of her week. Evie listened to my parental input and that of my daughter's carers and worked around her specific needs. She made my daughter feel safe and special and gave her a huge sense of achievement when she came out of the water. Evie is very sensitive too and aware of complex special needs and disabilities. [...]

- sarah engelking

My daughter had surfing sessions with Evie and they became the highlight of her week. Evie listened to my parental input and that of my daughter's carers and worked around her specific needs. She made my daughter feel safe and special and gave her a huge sense of achievement when she came out of the water. Evie is very sensitive too and aware of complex special needs and disabilities. She uses encouragement and playfulness to help build confidence and self worth through experiencing the water therapy, friendship and positive input. Evie is particularly good at making the experience fun and adapting to her clients wishes. She is relaxed and therapeutic in her approach. My daughter has benefited greatly and has now formed a great relationship with surf therapy and it has affected her positively in so many ways. I would highly recommend Evie as a surf therapist.

- sarah engelking

Evie is an awesome surf instructor! She has taken our severely disabled, daughter adaptive surfing, using a seated board, countless times and is incredibly talented and confident. Evie is highly trained in all elements of adaptive and able bodied surfing. I never have any cause for concern and trust her implicitly. She has also taught me how to surf, explaining and demonstrating everything brilliantly whilst making it all so much fun!She tapped into our non verbal, autistic daughter from day one and has such a natural, easy connection with her. One mention of Evie’s name and her whole face lights up!She is also possibly the smiliest person I have ever met and such a joy to spend time with. Surfing with Evie is epic!

- hazel ackroyd

I have had the pleasure of working alongside Evie, over the past two surfing seasons, in the delivery of Wave Project Surf Therapy and Adaptive Surf sessions, all based at Croyde in North Devon. The task is very specialised and requires a combination of many physical, mental and emotional skills; Evie was selected by the Wave Project Lead for Adaptive Surfing in the UK to receive intense training in this discipline due to her demonstrated surfing ability and surfing instructor skills, but also because of her approachability, care and consideration, dedication, professionalism and kindness when dealing with a variety of fully-able and adaptive surfers. Such sessions are designed to offer access to blue spaces, in a very inclusive manner, to all surfers, irrespective of any/multiple challenges that some face (from chronic neurological disorders and acquired brain injuries to those with physical and/or mental disabilities). In all cases, it requires a talented instructor who can pair the session to the surf conditions and the needs of the individual surfer, lead a team of instructors and volunteers of varying skills and experience, adapt a variety of clothing, equipment and techniques to ensure the surfer's comfort, safety and fun factor at all times in very challenging and changing environments and cohere and coordinate all associated activities both in and out of the sea (from the surfer's arrival at the surf school until their departure). Consequently, it carries significant responsibility and risk which Evie has always managed in a calm and highly assured manner. Such are her abilities that one of our Surfing England competitive prone surfers requested that she be allocated as his main instructor to every session that he undertook in preparing for both UK and Worlds competitions, citing her board handling, calmness and constructive feedback as key attributes. It has been my privilege to work with Evie on every session, where her professionalism, aptitude, amiability and charisma have all shone through and I would embrace with both hands any opportunity to work with her again. She is a great asset to any organisation and a very lovely person too.

- ANDY HAWKER MSC RAF

What is adaptive surf therapy?

Adaptive surf therapy isn't as complicated as it sounds. Adaptive surfing, in short, is surfing that has been modified to enable people with physical disabilities, learning disabilities, sensory impairments, neurological conditions, or mental health challenges to safely enjoy the sea.

Adaptive

This is the way we change various things about surfing to make it accessible. This could be one thing, it could be lots of things, depending on the level of support a surfer needs. It could be the need for equipment adaptations, physical support, adapted teaching and communication methods, sensory or emotional support or medical and physical considerations. None of these things should prevent someone from enjoying the water, being adaptive means it won't.

surf

Surfing is defined as the activity of riding waves on a surfboard using the energy of the sea. There are lots of ways to do that; lying, kneeling, sitting or standing. Surfing is experiencing the excitement and therapeutic benefits of riding waves in a way that is meaningful to you.

therapy

Therapy, in the context of The Happy Sea Company, refers to the purposeful use of surfing and the ocean environment to support health and wellbeing. Sessions are designed to promote confidence, independence, emotional regulation, social connection and enjoyment through meaningful experiences in the sea. They are not a substitute for medical or psychological treatment but can complement wider health, education and support services

Who can surf?

The Happy Sea Co. welcomes individuals with a wide range of learning disabilities, developmental disabilities and neurodevelopmental differences, including (but not limited to) autism, Down syndrome, ADHD, cerebral palsy, dyspraxia, Fragile X syndrome and global learning disabilities.In addition, I welcome individuals with visual or hearing impairments, acquired brain injuries, limb differences, and mental health challenges, including anxiety, depression and bereavement.People with additional needs, disabilities and mental health challenges often benefit from surfing because it provides a unique combination of physical activity, sensory input, challenge, achievement, social connection and time in nature. Unlike some sports, surfing can be adapted to the individual, allowing success to be defined by participation rather than performance.Surfing offers far more than physical exercise. It combines movement, nature, challenge and play to support physical, emotional and social wellbeing. Participants can build confidence, develop new skills, strengthen connections with others and experience the freedom, joy and therapeutic benefits of the sea in a safe and supportive environment.

my background

My name is Evie, I’m from Great Ayton and have been surfing at Saltburn for many years. For the past four years, I have been living and working in Croyde, North Devon, where I worked as a surf coach and delivered adaptive surf therapy through The Wave Project charity.I began working with The Wave Project in 2022 and went on to gain three years of experience delivering surf therapy sessions for individuals with additional needs, learning disabilities, autism, sensory impairments, and physical disabilities. This experience inspired me to achieve my qualification as an ISA Adaptive Surf Instructor, alongside my Level 1 Surf Coach qualification and RLSS Beach Lifeguard award.Alongside my surf background, I have experience in care and support roles, including working within Botton Village (Camphill Village Trust) and as an SEN Teaching Assistant in a specialist school. These roles have strengthened my understanding of person-centred support and working with individuals with a wide range of needs.I am Enhanced DBS checked and hold Level 2 Safeguarding Children and Vulnerable Adults certification. I have also completed additional training in autism awareness, epilepsy awareness, Fragile X syndrome awareness, person-centred care and communication skills.Having now moved back to the North East, I feel incredibly passionate about bringing small-scale adaptive surf therapy to Saltburn and creating opportunities for more people to safely experience the confidence, connection and wellbeing that the sea can offer.

sessions + prices

The current prices reflect the cost of delivering personalised adaptive surf therapy while I establish The Happy Sea Co. My long-term aim is to become a Community Interest Company, allowing me to access funding and partnerships to subsidise sessions for those facing financial barriers. If cost is a barrier to accessing this service, please register your interest on the contact page and we will keep you updated on future funded opportunities.Every participant begins with a 1:1 taster session, giving me the opportunity to get to know you and understand your needs. Following your taster session, you can go on to choose single 1:1 sessions or go into small group sessions if those fit for you.

taster session - £30

A relaxed introductory session designed to assess individual needs, explore goals, and experience adaptive surfing in a safe and supportive environment.

single 1:1 session - £45

A personalised 1:1 adaptive surf therapy session tailored to your needs, abilities and goals.

block of 4 sessions - £175

Continue building confidence, wellbeing and surfing skills with four sessions at a reduced rate.

block of 6 sessions - £240

The best value option, allowing more time to develop trust, consistency and lasting benefits through regular sessions.

All sessions are approximately 2 hours in duration, including getting changed, preparation and debrief time, with around 60 -75 minutes in the water depending on individual needs, weather conditions and energy levels. Equipment hire is included.

Safeguarding Policy

The Happy Sea Co.

Designated Safeguarding LeadName: Genevieve Pernet
Role: Founder, Lead Facilitator and Designated Safeguarding Lead
Organisation: The Happy Sea Co.
Email: [email protected] or [email protected]
Telephone: 07860931503External Safeguarding Advice
Where advice or support is required, or where concerns relate to the Designated Safeguarding Lead, concerns should be referred to:
Redcar and Cleveland Children's Services
Redcar and Cleveland Local Authority Designated Officer (LADO)
Cleveland Police
Emergency Services (999) where immediate risk exists1. Policy Statement
Happy Sea Co. is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults. Every participant has the right to feel safe, respected and valued whilst taking part in any Happy Sea Co. activity.
The Happy Sea Co. provides sea-based wellbeing activities, adaptive surfing experiences and creative workshops designed to support emotional wellbeing, confidence, connection and enjoyment. Safeguarding is central to all activities and underpins every aspect of practice.
This policy applies to:
children and young people under the age of 18; adults at risk; parents and carers; participants attending one-to-one or group sessions; all sea-based and land-based activities; art workshops; online communication associated with The Happy Sea Co.
The Happy Sea Co. recognises that:
the welfare of children and vulnerable adults is paramount; all individuals have the right to protection from abuse regardless of age, disability, gender, race, religion, sexuality or background; safeguarding is everyone's responsibility; abuse can occur in person or online;
some individuals may have additional vulnerabilities requiring increased support.2. Safeguarding Commitments
Happy Sea Co. is committed to:
creating a safe, inclusive and welcoming environment;
treating all participants with dignity and respect; listening to children and young people; responding promptly to safeguarding concerns; maintaining professional boundaries; following statutory safeguarding guidance; working in partnership with parents, carers, schools and relevant agencies; recording and reporting concerns appropriately; ensuring confidentiality is maintained appropriately; undertaking safeguarding training and maintaining knowledge and skills.3. Roles and Responsibilities
As a sole practitioner, Genevieve Pernet fulfils the role of:
Founder; Session Leader; Designated Safeguarding Lead; First Point of Contact for safeguarding concerns.
Responsibilities include:
maintaining safeguarding knowledge and training; promoting safe practice;
responding appropriately to disclosures; keeping accurate records; liaising with external agencies when required;
making referrals to Children's Services or the Police where necessary; reviewing safeguarding arrangements annually.
Should concerns relate to the conduct or suitability of the Designated Safeguarding Lead herself, concerns should be reported directly to the Local Authority Designated Officer (LADO) or Children's Services.4. Responding to Concerns and Disclosures
If a participant discloses abuse or a safeguarding concern:
DO
remain calm;
listen carefully;
reassure the individual that they have done the right thing;
explain that information may need to be shared to keep them safe;
allow the individual to speak freely;
ask only open questions for clarification;
record information as soon as possible.DO NOT
promise confidentiality;
investigate;
ask leading questions;
interrupt unnecessarily;
express shock or disbelief;
make assumptions.
Examples of appropriate questions include:
"Tell me what happened."
"Can you explain what you mean?"
"Is there anything else you want me to know?"
See Appendix 1 for Flow Chart.5. Immediate Risk
Where a child or vulnerable adult is believed to be in immediate danger:
emergency services should be contacted immediately by dialling 999;
medical assistance should be sought where necessary;
parents or carers should be informed where doing so would not increase risk;
a written record should be completed as soon as possible.6. Recording Concerns
Records should include:
name and date of birth;
date and time;
nature of concern;
exact words used where possible;
injuries observed;
names of witnesses;
actions taken;
whether parents or carers have been informed;
advice sought from external agencies.
Records should contain factual information and distinguish clearly between fact and opinion.
All records will be stored securely in accordance with UK GDPR and the Data Protection Act 2018.
See Appendix 2 for Disclosure Form.7. Confidentiality and Information Sharing
Information will only be shared on a need-to-know basis.
Confidentiality cannot be guaranteed where there are concerns regarding safety or welfare.
Information may be shared with:
Children's Services;
Police;
Local Authority Designated Officer;
health professionals;
schools or referrers where appropriate.
The safety and welfare of the individual will always take precedence.8. Managing Allegations
Any allegation made against the Designated Safeguarding Lead will be treated seriously.
Concerns should be reported directly to:
Children's Services;
the Local Authority Designated Officer;
Police where appropriate.
All allegations will be recorded and external advice followed.9. Lone Working and One-to-One Sessions
As Happy Sea Co. is operated by a sole practitioner, many sessions may involve one-to-one support.
To reduce risk:
parental consent will be obtained;
locations will be risk assessed;
where possible sessions will take place in public environments;
unnecessary isolation will be avoided;
communication with parents and carers will remain open and transparent;
boundaries will be maintained at all times;
participants will never be invited to private residences.
Home visits should only occur where absolutely necessary and with the knowledge and agreement of parents or carers.10. Photography and Social Media
Images will only be used with appropriate consent by all staff and participants.
Photographs should:
promote positive representation;
avoid unnecessary identifying information;
be stored securely.11. Code of Conduct
Adults Should
treat everyone with dignity and respect;
act as positive role models;
maintain professional boundaries;
listen to concerns;
report safeguarding worries promptly;
respect privacy;
promote inclusion.
Adults Must Not
form inappropriate relationships;
use abusive language;
engage in humiliating behaviour;
make suggestive comments;
promise secrecy;
ignore concerns;
share personal contact details unnecessarily.12. Safer Recruitment
The Happy Sea Company ensures all staff and volunteers are safe to work with vulnerable individuals:
Enhanced DBS checks via the Disclosure and Barring Service
Verification of qualifications
References where appropriate
Clear safeguarding expectations13. Participant Expectations
Participants are expected to:
look after each other;
treat others kindly;
follow instructions;
respect equipment;
avoid behaviour that causes harm;
contribute to a safe and welcoming environment.14. Running Safe Sessions
All sessions will:
be appropriately planned;
include suitable risk assessments;
provide clear safety instructions;
maintain suitable supervision;
include access to first aid provision;
record incidents appropriately.
Tide, weather, and conditions assessed
Use of RNLI lifeguarded beaches where possible
Equipment checked
Close supervision at all times
RNLI guidance considered for water safety15. Sea-Based Activities
Surfing and sea activities involve additional considerations.
Participants will:
receive safety briefings;
use appropriate equipment;
follow instructions from qualified instructors where relevant;
be supported according to their needs.
Physical support will only be provided where necessary and appropriately.16. Art Workshops
Art workshops are intended to provide safe, creative and therapeutic spaces.
Participants will:
never be pressured to disclose personal experiences;
be treated respectfully;
be supported emotionally where appropriate;
have access to safe materials and environments.
Should concerns arise during creative activities, they will be managed in accordance with this policy.17. Understanding Abuse
Abuse may be:
physical;
emotional;
sexual;
neglect;
exploitation.
Abuse may occur:
at home;
within the community;
online;
through peers;
through individuals in positions of trust.
Indicators may include:
unexplained injuries;
withdrawal;
anxiety;
sudden behavioural changes;
sexualised behaviour;
poor hygiene;
changes in eating patterns;
distress or fear.
It is not the responsibility of Happy Sea Co. to determine whether abuse has occurred, but it is the responsibility of Happy Sea Co. to respond appropriately to concerns.18. Specific Safeguarding Issues
This policy recognises:
child sexual exploitation;
online abuse;
domestic abuse;
radicalisation;
county lines;
child-on-child abuse;
sexual harassment;
female genital mutilation;
bullying and cyberbullying.19. Local Contacts
Redcar and Cleveland Children's Services
Local Authority Designated Officer (LADO)
Cleveland Police
Emergency Services – 999
Childline – 0800 1111
NSPCC Helpline – 0808 800 5000Monitoring and Review
This policy will be reviewed annually, or sooner if:
legislation changes;
safeguarding guidance changes;
a significant incident occurs;
learning identifies improvements required.Declaration
Name: Genevieve Pernet
Role: Founder and Designated Safeguarding Lead The Happy Sea Co.Date: 02/05/2026
Review Date: 02/05/2027Signed:

creative workshops

Alongside surf therapy sessions, The Happy Sea Company offers creative wellbeing workshops in a private, welcoming space where participants can explore, create and have fun. All materials are provided, allowing everyone to focus on the process of making and enjoying the experience without barriers.Each session will include a guided creative project, which may sometimes continue across multiple sessions, giving participants the opportunity to develop skills, build confidence and take pride in their creations. Projects may include drawing, painting, textiles, felt work, clay, crafts and a variety of other creative processes.While a focus project will be offered each session, there will always be flexibility to explore different materials and activities depending on individual interests, abilities and preferences. The emphasis is on creativity, self-expression, exploration and enjoying the simple pleasure of making something unique.

Contact

I'd love to hear from you. If you're interested in booking a session or registering your interest, simply complete the form below and I'll be in touch to discuss your requirements and answer any questions you may have.Alternatively, you are welcome to contact me directly:Email: [email protected]
Telephone: 07860 931503

Find us

The Happy Sea Co. operates out of Saltburn Surf School, located on the Lower prom on Saltburn beach front.

lOCATION

Saltburn Surf School, Lower Promenade, Saltburn-by-the-Sea TS12 1HQ

Phone

Evie 07860931503
Saltburn Surf School 07961714993

email

[email protected]
[email protected]