We were thrilled to support Surfability UK in making their inclusive surfing experiences even more accessible by using Signalong. Following both a Signalong Foundation Course and a Surfability-specific training session, the Surfability team is now equipped with the tools to communicate more effectively with surfers who have communication needs.
Surfability UK is a Community Interest Company (CIC) dedicated to providing adapted and inclusive surfing experiences for individuals with additional needs stemming from disability, illness, injury, or learning difficulties. Their participants range in age from 6 to 90 years old, each with their own diverse support needs.
Operating year-round at Caswell Bay on the Gower Peninsula, Surfability offers tailored surfing sessions that adapt to the ability and comfort level of each participant. Recognising the challenges of colder seasons, they also provide indoor skateboarding lessons during winter for those who find the sea too cold.
Their offerings include:
- Single Board Surfing Lessons
- Tandem Surfing Lessons
- Prone Surfing Lessons
- Seated Tandem Surfing Lessons – Surfability created the UK’s first seated tandem surfboard, enabling individuals who cannot sit up unaided to experience surfing
Surfability’s specialised equipment and dedicated team ensure that participants, regardless of the level of assistance required, can safely enjoy the excitement of surfing.
Surfability was introduced to Signalong by the mother of one of their surfers, who is also a qualified Signalong Tutor in the local area. She shared how Signalong could benefit them and their participants. Following the training, Surfability said: “We would absolutely recommend Signalong Training, especially to those in the Swansea area, as it’s being used county-wide. It will help communication in many ways, bigger than just us. The Tutor’s kind and clear and made the training an enjoyable and easy learning experience.”
Surfability hopes that implementing Signalong will enhance their instructors' ability to connect meaningfully with participants, creating deeper bonds and more positive, inclusive experiences in and out of the water.
Signalong plays a vital role in breaking down communication barriers and ensuring everyone feels seen, heard, and supported. Based in Norfolk, Signalong has qualified Tutors located across the UK, supported individuals, companies and schools. Signalong is primarily used by those with learning difficulties.
To find out more or enquire about Signalong training, send an email to admin@signalong.org.uk
To learn more about Surfability UK visit https://surfabilityukcic.org/.