A $275,000 program boost for service personnel has been awarded by The Hospital Research Foundation (THRF) Group. This commitment supports current and former serving military members and first responders access sport to aid recovery and wellbeing.
Strengthening the WAVES program
This additional funding bolsters another two years of the University of South Australia’s successful WAVES (Wellbeing for Australian Veterans and Emergency Services) program, formerly the Invictus Pathways Program (IPP).
The program offers crucial support to service members who face physical, emotional or psychological challenges and injuries from their service.
A joint contribution for greater impact
This two-year funding is a joint contribution from THRF Group and Military and Emergency Services Health Australia (MESHA) —part of THRF Group. The grant will go to UniSA’s Allied Health & Human Performance team, which developed and runs the WAVES program.
Thanks to this support, UniSA can expand the scope of the program to reach even more service members and their families.
A world-first approach to recovery
According to Dr Karen May, Head of THRF Group – MESHA, the funding will expand access to this world-first program for more service members.
“WAVES has helped hundreds of service men and women with their physical and mental injuries through sport. It’s helped them set new goals, engage in the community, overcome challenges and heal from their injuries,” Dr May said.
“We’re excited to continue this partnership with UniSA and support this life-changing program that continues to reach new heights.”
The WAVES program combines structured physical activity and goal setting with a comprehensive approach to recovery. It also uses a unique student-delivered style incorporating sport, exercise, allied health services and community adaptive sports.
Additionally, the program also trains the next generation of health professionals in working together in an interdisciplinary way with clients.
This gives them the opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of service populations and their specific needs and experiences.
Expanding WAVES to serve more families
UniSA’s Professor Gaynor Parfitt, Research Director of the WAVES Program expressed appreciation for receiving funding from MESHA and THRF Group.
“These funds will enable us to employ additional staff to expand the WAVES program,” Prof Parfitt said.
“This will allow us to continue supporting the wellbeing of service members and their families.”
Since its inception in 2017, WAVES has helped hundreds of service personnel and first responders.
Looking ahead, the team is eager to continue this impact for these individuals and their families.
