Pembrokeshire’s very own surf experience for young people with Autism Spectrum Disorder is set to return to Tenby South Beach on Friday, June 12.

Splash Out, a free one day event offering young people and their families the chance to experience the thrill of surfing under the watchful eye of experienced ‘Surf Buddies’ has returned for its third year and is set to be the largest in its history.

Splash Out is a programme that gives the unique opportunity for children aged five to 18 years, who are diagnosed with ASD, to participate in an exciting day of surf and beach-based activities alongside some of the most experienced and friendly Surf Buddies in the country.

Participants will have the opportunity to partake in activities such as surfing, swimming and general splashing around in the waves, as well as play a wide selection of beach-based games, while learning core, water safety messages from the Surf Buddy team.

“At Splash Out, we believe that surfing can have incredible effects on the lives of those who try it. We aim to offer this unique experience to those diagnosed or awaiting a diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder,” said founder Angelo Fecci.

Many children with ASD struggle with sensory overload; in other words, simple sensations can overwhelm them. The weightlessness and rhythms of the ocean offer a therapeutic experience, a respite from the constant assault on their senses.

Splash Out is staffed entirely by volunteers from all walks of life and is funded entirely by local businesses. The event enables individuals to partake in a range of activities that normally they wouldn’t have the chance to undertake. All this is done alongside their very own one-to-one Surf Buddy, a qualified lifesaver or one of the county’s most experienced surf enthusiasts, enabling them to develop their confidence and water-based skills in a safe and nurturing environment.

But it’s not all about the kid. No, Splash Out encourages the whole family to get involved, with the day acting as a simple respite for the whole family, enabling them to learn new skills and enjoy a day at the beach with like-minded individuals, safe in the knowledge that they are being cared for by an experienced team.

Autism Surf Camps are highly popular across the globe and have had significant impacts in adopting calmer temperaments, enhancing confidence and learning how to develop trust in others. Surf Camps allow participants to reduce anxiety levels whilst being introduced to a new sport and way of life.

Registration for the event goes live today (Friday, March 11). Spaces are allocated on a first come, first served basis. To register your child onto Splash Out 2016, please visit the website www.tenbyslsc.wix.com/splashout and click on ‘participants’.

Further news and information about the event can be found by searching @SplashOutExp on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

Interested in volunteering with us? We are always looking for exciting people to join our team of Surf Buddies and dry side support and regardless of your surf experience, we have a role for you.

Visit our website www.tenbyslsc.wix.com/splashout for more information and to register.