Get Out Get Active teams up with Tedworth Equestrian Centre
As restrictions for the COVID-19 pandemic lift Get Out Get Active and Wilshire Council have teamed up with Tedworth Equestrian Centre to deliver a series of sessions for disabled and non-disabled people to be active with horses. The sessions aim to encourage disabled and non-disabled people to be more active whilst experiencing stable life.
The sessions were originally developed to link with Help for Heroes and other military services supporting military families or veterans to be more active. The programme, which started in Summer 2021, has become very popular in the community.
We are doing something vitally important for our communities, and in creating this partnership we will grow stronger and better at improving the lived experiences of people and groups.
Jamie Balls, CEO of Tedworth Equestrian
During the sessions, participants build up their confidence to lead a horse by its reigns. Participants also learn about the various horses on the yard and help groom and prepare them for the day ahead. At the end of each session participants are welcome to relax and discuss the day’s events over tea, coffee and cake.
Local NHS providers are referring individuals to the sessions to support their mental and physical health. Participants have shared how being around the horses provides a sense of calm, with many commenting on how relaxed and less anxious they feel when at the session.
I don’t leave my flat that often, sometimes just once or twice a week, so to have this opportunity is amazing. It had a huge effect on my mental health being around horses. Totally calms me down and relaxing too. Just to get me out and be in touch with animals is really all I need in life.
Liz, GOGA Participant
GOGA participants are now volunteering on other days at the centre and more links are being put in place to develop further military veteran programmes within the area.
The Get Out Get Active project is helping to engage, inspire and support participants, new volunteers and coaches. Local community organisations are using GOGA to ensure sustainability, create pathways and improve health and wellbeing for disabled and non-disabled people within the community.
Dominique Oughton, Get Out Get Active Lead at Wiltshire and Swindon Sport
This story is part of our ongoing series showcasing how GOGA locations are finding new ways to reach some of the most inactive audiences across the UK.
About Get Out Get Active
Get Out Get Active (GOGA) is a programme that supports disabled and non-disabled people to enjoy being active together. Activity Alliance is the creator and lead partner. The programme is funded by Spirit of 2012, Sport England and London Marathon Charitable Trust.