Russell-Cooke volunteers support Wormwood Scrubs Pony Centre

With a great turnout of 18 Russell-Cooke employees, the day consisted of gardening, painting and for a few colleagues, riding lessons.

Wormwood Scrubs Pony Centre is an inner-city charity affiliated with the Riding for the Disabled Association. Founded in 1989, the centre has grown from three ponies and hand-built stables into a traditional stable yard that is now home to two donkeys and 16 horses & ponies.

The charity is run by a small team of experienced staff, supported by many dedicated volunteers, who provide riding and equine therapy for children, particularly those with special educational needs and physical disabilities.

The centre also supports the Changing Lives through Horses programme which offers young people at risk of educational exclusion an alternative educational pathway. During the visit, we heard first hand from a young person on this scheme about the positive impact it has had on her life.

The day began with a tour of the centre and an introduction to WSPC’s mission and work. The team also met apprentices who were gaining practical equine experience.

Volunteers then split into groups. The gardening team revitalised the planter outside the centre entrance, while the painters refreshed the kitchen and refreshments area. Another team treated the wooden stables with protective oil, coating both the interior and exterior surfaces.

After a well-deserved lunch break, colleagues recharged before returning to their tasks for the afternoon. While gardening and painting continued, five colleagues had the opportunity to take riding lessons in the centre's arena. Participants ranged from complete beginners to experienced riders, and it was a pleasure to see everyone enjoying the experience.

“By stepping away from my desk for the day away from everyday work life, I gained valuable insights about the special bond that people can have with horses and the positive impact that this can have – and the charities that operate with those individuals in mind." – Felicity Holford

“It was great to give back to an organisation that clearly has such a positive impact on the community. It was refreshing to spend the day with the animals, get to know colleagues from across the firm and contribute to such a worthwhile cause.” – Ria Grace

Wormwood Scrubs Pony Centre welcome volunteers who would like to support its work. To learn more about volunteering opportunities or the charity’s wider activities, visit its website.