Help us to provide riding and carriage driving for children and adults with a range of disabilities.
Charity Number 1042415 Patron: Michael D Abrahams CBE DL
Quotes from parents on what is important about disabled riding for their children:
“The company and being able to do something with others...”
“Being accepted...”
“Being one of the best - for a change...”
Many people think that horse riding for disabled people is just a bit of fun - merely a pleasant outing - but in fact it has a UNIQUE remedial effect.
The regular, repeated movement of the horse helps to improved balance and strengthen back and leg muscles. Riding also improves co-ordination of legs, hands and feet.
Self-confidence is boosted by group exercises and games. For many of our riders, being on a horse gives them a freedom and grace that they lack when sitting in a wheelchair or endeavouring to walk.
Our activities require a mix of disabled and able-bodied people and the communication that is necessary between riders and volunteers helps to develop understanding and social skills.
The disabilities of our riders include multiple sclerosis, cerebral palsy, learning disabilities and behavioural problems, autism, deafness and visual impairment.
Many of our riders were originally introduced to us by the physiotherapists of Harrogate and District Community Resource Team.
We also have riders from Henshaw’s College for the Blind and from Insight Homes.
