Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Equine Therapy for Disabled Individuals in Edinburgh
Since 1959, we have been dedicated to transforming lives through equine therapy, offering tailored support for disabled individuals of all ages. Our organisation provides therapeutic riding, fitness programmes, and skills development, supported by a team of qualified coaches and over 200 weekly participants. With a heritage rooted in pioneering work since Sheila More Nisbett's groundbreaking intervention for a child with Polio, we continue to innovate through award-winning initiatives in horse husbandry and family connection. As a registered charity, our operations rely on donor generosity, volunteer dedication, and the therapeutic partnership of our eight ponies.We maintain rigorous standards through professional training for volunteers and collaborate with medical professionals to ensure measurable outcomes. Our inclusive approach welcomes individuals with physical and learning disabilities, autism, and wellbeing needs across Edinburgh and The Lothians. Through structured programmes, we foster community integration while maintaining strict safety protocols for both participants and animals. Our three full-time staff members coordinate with hundreds of volunteers to deliver consistent, high-quality sessions throughout the year.
Services
Equine Therapy
Therapeutic Riding
Fitness Programmes
Skills Development
Volunteer Training
Pony Sponsorship
Community Integration
Youth Support
Family Connection Programmes
Details
- Year established: 1959
Highlights and features
- We have 65 years of specialist experience in equine therapy for disabled individuals
- Our qualified coaches deliver structured programmes with measurable outcomes
- We operate award-winning initiatives in horse husbandry and family connection
- Our inclusive approach welcomes individuals with diverse physical and learning needs
- We maintain rigorous safety standards for both participants and therapy ponies
Services
Equine Therapy
Our equine therapy programmes utilise horse movement to improve physical and emotional wellbeing. Participants develop core strength, balance, and confidence through structured sessions. Each programme is tailored to individual needs by qualified instructors.
Therapeutic Riding
Specially adapted riding lessons enhance motor skills and coordination. Sessions focus on riding techniques modified for accessibility, with support from trained volunteers and side-walkers. Progress is tracked through established assessment frameworks.
Skills Development
Participants learn practical skills through horse care activities. Programmes include stable management, grooming, and equipment handling to build responsibility and dexterity. These activities promote independence and social interaction.
Volunteer Training
We provide comprehensive training for volunteers working with horses and riders. Training covers safe handling, lesson support, and disability awareness. Ongoing development ensures consistent service quality across all programmes.
Pony Sponsorship
Sponsorship funds directly support our therapy ponies' care needs. Contributions cover veterinary care, dental work, and equipment maintenance. Sponsors receive updates about their chosen pony's therapeutic impact and wellbeing.
Questions
What age groups do you cater for?
We welcome participants from age 4 upwards, with programmes specifically adapted for children, adults, and seniors requiring therapeutic support.
Do I need prior horse experience?
No prior experience is required. Our qualified instructors and volunteers provide full guidance for both riding activities and stable management tasks.
How are therapy sessions structured?
Sessions follow individualised plans developed by our coaching team. Each 30-45 minute session combines riding exercises with physical and emotional development goals tailored to the participant's needs.
Can I volunteer without working directly with horses?
Yes, we offer diverse volunteering opportunities including event organisation, administrative support, and fundraising activities alongside stable-based roles.
How do you ensure participant safety?
We maintain strict safety protocols with trained side-walkers, protective equipment, and risk assessments. All volunteers complete safety training before working with participants or animals.
