Surfing helps emergency service workers cope with mental health challenges in Cornwall

Devon and Cornwall Police and Dorset Police have teamed up to launch a new pilot scheme offering surfing as a treatment to combat PTSD, stress and other mental health issues for emergency service workers.

The Surfwell sessions are taking place on several beaches across the West Country, including Fistral Beach in Newquay.

The sessions are designed to be fun but also to give those taking part a chance to talk.

Devon and Cornwall Police and Dorset Police are rolling out this scheme on beaches in the three counties. 

But it's not just for the police, Other emergency service workers including South Western Ambulance Service staff can also now take part.

For Sarah Herbert who's a radio supervisor within Devon and Cornwall police taking this time out, is helping her to heal.

Whether it's the waves that wash worries away, or talking things through afterwards,  it's clear that for some, these surfing sessions are a step in the right direction