COMEDIAN Shaparak Khorsandi has taken a break from the Fringe festivities to help launch this summer’s Sport Relief Big Swim challenge with a splash by visiting a special project on the outskirts of Edinburgh that is using the power of sport to help young people improve their mental health, build confidence and reduce isolation.
Along with her daughter, Vivie, aged 12, Shaparak spent some time with The Wave Project, which is funded by Comic Relief and runs sessions for young people at the Lost Shore Surf Resort in Edinburgh, Europe’s largest inland surf resort.
Shaparak, who is currently starring in her smash-hit show Scatterbrain at Edinburgh Fringe Festival, took to the water alongside a group of young people who receive one-on-one support from volunteers through the charity’s Surf Therapy programmes. The Surf Therapy sessions are delivered in 17 locations around the UK – including Edinburgh, Dunbar and St. Andrews in Scotland – and offer a safe and supportive environment where young people can be themselves, make friends and feel a sense of belonging – often for the first time in their lives.
Shaparak Khorsandi said:
“What an absolute blast it has been to join such an incredible group of people for a surf session with such an important purpose. I’m a huge advocate for supporting mental health projects and seeing firsthand how sport and being outdoors is helping young people here has been really inspiring.
“It’s my first ever time on a board and I’ve loved every minute. I don’t think I’ve stopped smiling since I’ve been here – being in the water and riding the waves, it brings so much joy. It gets your heart pumping and your brain working in such a unique way – I can’t believe I’ve waited 52 years to do this! This is my life now!”
Taking inspiration from celebrity superstars like Billy Monger, Davina McCall and Tom Daley who have all completed heroic swimming-based challenges for Comic Relief, the Big Swim is now challenging the nation to take the plunge and swim 5km, 10km, or 15km throughout September, to raise money for Sport Relief. Donations could help to fund projects that support mental health and improve young people’s self-esteem and resilience through sport.
Shaparak added:
“If like me, you just love being in the water, or need a bit of a challenge, then the Big Swim is the one for you. You’ll be raising vital funds for some brilliant charities and taking care of your own mental health at the same time – it’s a win win. So come on, sign up and jump on in…the water’s warm!”
Samir Patel, CEO of Comic Relief, said:
“The ongoing mental health crisis facing so many children and young people here in Scotland and across the UK makes organisations like The Wave Project absolutely crucial. With Shaparak’s support, we’re so proud to highlight such a brilliant initiative that is tackling a serious issue in such an engaging and exciting way for children. We hope today’s visit inspires people to challenge themselves to get involved with the Big Swim for Sport Relief this September. It’s a great way to help raise money for amazing projects, just like The Wave Project, who are doing fantastic work to improve people’s mental health and wellbeing every day.”
Joy Corcec, Marketing Manager at The Wave Project, said:
“We are incredibly grateful to Comic Relief for their generous support. Surf Therapy is an early intervention which does so much to improve the mental health and wellbeing of the children and young people who become our Surfers. With 1 in 5 young people now having a diagnosable mental health challenge it is clear that they need charities like The Wave Project. Our charity creates community, friendships, confidence and resilience. Comic Relief enables us to do that across the UK.”
Robin, aged 19, was first introduced to The Wave Project in 2020 when she joined the Surf Therapy programme. After completing the programme, she began attending regular Surf Club sessions and is now a Surf Volunteer.
She said:
“When I first came I wouldn’t talk to anyone. The project co-ordinator that I did the Surf Therapy with used to have to hold my hand for the whole of the session. Now I’m me. I’m ten times more confident. Being involved has given me the opportunity to be myself in a safe space, where I’ve been allowed to grow into the person I am now. It’s the best thing you can do, it’s so much fun and seeing the smiles on people’s faces when they come out of the water after a session is unbeatable.”
Supporters who sign up to take part in the Big Swim will receive a free Sport Relief t-shirt and fundraising pack to help them every length of the way.
To get involved, please visit: www.comicrelief.com/bigswim.
