ON the evening of Tuesday, May 13, St Michael’s Mount will light up in The Wave Project’s signature blues as a visual tribute to young people’s mental health.

This event marks Mental Health Awareness Week (May 12 to 18) and shines a light on the growing need to support children and young people who are struggling with their mental wellbeing in Cornwall and across the UK.

Cornwall is facing a youth mental health crisis, with mental health referrals for children more than doubling in the last five years, rising by 157 per cent. In 2024 alone, the Cornwall Partnership NHS Foundation Trust received 11,612 referrals.

This sharp rise is linked to a combination of factors, including the long-term impact of the pandemic, increasing levels of poverty, and the effects of social media and cyberbullying. Many of these young people face long waits for help or fall through the gaps in traditional services. This is a pattern The Wave Project charity sees nationwide.

The Wave Project, a charity born on a Cornish beach in 2010, exists to tackle this growing need by delivering Surf Therapy programmes; proven, evidence-based interventions that use surfing, the ocean and supportive mentoring to help young people build confidence and connection.

Delivered at beaches around the UK, including several in Cornwall, the charity helps 2,500 young people every year, many of whom are facing serious challenges like social isolation, bereavement and low self-esteem.

Ramon Van de Velde, chief executive officer at The Wave Project comments: “St Michael’s Mount is close to my heart, having worked on the island and with Lord and Lady St Levan for six years. It’s a beautiful place shaped by time and tide which speaks powerfully to what we do through Surf Therapy. Being immersed in nature, in blue spaces like the ocean, helps young people slow down, reconnect and heal.

“We’re incredibly grateful to St Michael’s Mount for this tribute and helping raise awareness of the mental health crisis facing young people in Cornwall, and beyond.”

Duncan Murdoch, head of operations for St Michael’s Mount: “We're very grateful to have the opportunity to support and help raise awareness for such a wonderful local charity. It’s a cause that resonates with many and we’re thankful to play even a small part in the valuable work they do.”

To help The Wave Project continue their vital work and to donate, visit: https://www.waveproject.co.uk/get-involved/donate/