A long-running Fife charity, which offers vital support for children and young people with physical and mental disabilities, is fighting for its survival amid fears for its long-term future because of the impact of the coronavirus restrictions.
Shiresmill Therapy Riding Centre at Blairhall, which has, for the last 35 years, provided horse riding and therapeutic activities for children and people of all ages with physical disabilities, learning difficulties and youngsters on the autistic spectrum, remains unable to operate fully because of the continuing Covid-19 restrictions.
With continuing uncertainty over when it can fully resume operations, volunteers at the independent charity, which relies solely on its own fundraising and public donations, now fear for its long-term survival.
Allison McKilligan, a mental health nurse and chairperson and safeguarding officer for the charity said that despite activity being scaled down to a minimum, the charity was now being forced to rely on its financial reserves to keep running.
She said: “We’ve been unable to operate normally for over eight months now forcing us to cancel our two biggest annual fundraising events which essentially keep the place running.
“The centre runs entirely on the support of its team of volunteers, yet need a minimum £20,000 per year just to pay for the upkeep of the 24-acre centre, as well as feeding and maintaining the welfare of the horses and paying veterinary bills, which is a massive struggle.
“The charity has had to rely on its cash reserves but that won’t sustain us for ever.
“It’s an extremely worrying time for everyone associated with the centre, be it volunteers or the children and families which benefit from coming here.”
A recent study conducted by the Riding For the Disabled Association (RDA) found that 93% of 476 member riding centres across the UK were still unable to operate because of Covid-19 restrictions.
Caroline Ward, RDA head of communication and Insight, said the pandemic was having a “devastating effect” on centres.
She added: “Ultimately, we want a return to normal activity levels as soon and safely as possible, and for our participants to benefit from the physical exercise, boost to wellbeing and sense of community that RDA groups offer.”
“A previous study we carried out during lockdown showed just how devastating the closure of groups has been on our clients’ physical and mental wellbeing.”
Volunteers at Shiresmill facility are now calling the public to dig deep to help secure the centre’s long-term future.
Lesley Furnell, who has over three decades’ worth of experience teaching and coaching and who has volunteered at Shiresmill for the last 12 years, urged the public to show their support.
She said: “We have expanded the sponsorship of the ponies and we have a justgiving page to help bring in some of the revenue but it’s not enough.
“The benefits of the therapy riding for those who come here are immeasurable and vital for those individuals and their families.
“It would be a disaster if that work over the last 35 years was to be lost for good.”
To find out more about ways to support the centre, sponsor a pony or to make a donation, go to the website at www.shiresmill.org
