Riding programme to help the disadvantaged now offers bursaries
A horse centre in south Shropshire that helps disadvantaged young people get back on track can now offer bursaries to give more riders a second chance.
Country Treks near Stottesdon has taken part in the national Changing Lives Through Horses programme for years, offering an alternative learning environment for people aged 14-16 who are disengaged with or excluded from education, regardless of their background.
And now a private benefactor has stepped in to help fund those who wouldn't be able to access the course normally.
Sanctioned by the British Horse Society, the course offers awards in stable management as well as riding.
Country Treks' founder and owner Stephanie Eddies-Davies said: "The course very much goes at the young person's pace.
"The young people get certificates and recognition all the way through, that makes a difference.
"Sometimes they just say 'wow, I'm really proud of this thing I've done' and they go back into education and they've got more confidence and responsibility, and better social skills.
"But sometimes they continue with it and they go on to do NVQs or that kind of thing."
One of the centre's young riders was recognised with a national award from the British Horse Society.
Steph Ballinger, 17 and from Kidderminster, struggled with her confidence and was referred to Country Treks to take part in the programme in 2016.
She came into her own over the months, and is now carrying out work experience at the centre with hopes of a future career in looking after horses.
She said: "The course definitely helped me a lot. I'm a lot more confident than I used to be.
"I started mucking out stables, and feeding and things like that.
"Most weeks I had lessons on the horses too.
"At first I was quite nervous, but coming down often and getting used to them helped.
"It's down to the people here and I'm grateful to them."
Steph was recognised for her success on the course in a national BHS awards scheme, accepting the Pamela Almond Changing Lives Through Horses Achievement Award from society president Martin Clunes.
Stephanie, who has a background in youth working, said she loves helping people at the centre.
She said: "Horses help all kinds of people with mental and physical disabilities, from the army veteran to the stressed out mum who has lost her way.
"People with Parkinson's and MS to name but a few are seeing the benefits of working and riding with horses.
"The Changing Lives course really does what it says. Even volunteering once a week with a regular Riding for the Disabled Association session can fill your mood and brighten your week.
"We're in a very fortunate position to help people. People are sitting up and taking notice of us which is fantastic."
Anyone interested in any of the programmes at Country Treks, or applying for the bursary, can contact the centre at enquiries@horsetreks.co.uk or 01746 718436
