Bold changes made to our Riding program
We rely on the number of rides we operate each week for the rider fees these generate. In recent years, these fees represented approximately 30% of our operating costs each year, so we are totally reliant on grants, donations and sponsorship for the balance to ensure our financial viability.
Despite this financial shortfall, our Governance committee unanimously agreed to take a leap of faith and adopt advice from our Riding Coach and feedback from Volunteers and Rider Carers.
We agreed to reduce the number of rides we operate each day, from four to three, and reduce the maximum number of riders per riding session. The goal being to increase the time available to focus on best outcomes for our riders, and the safety and welfare of our staff and volunteers.
We made these changes at the beginning of Term one, with the first change being week one was a dedicated volunteer training week, with no rides. We have already received very positive feedback, including allowing more time to write rider outcome reports and hold briefing sessions before and after rides.
We do see this change as a short-term change, while we increase our horse numbers and we have two new coaches in training, that we may be able to employ to assist our head coach. All going to plan, we expect to increase our rides again later in the year so we can continue to Reach More Riders and Change More Lives.
This program change means we are going to have to work even harder this year to raise enough funds to cover the operational income shortfall from reduced rider fees.
If you can help with a donation or would like to become a sponsor, please get in touch or visit our “how can you help page” here
