Horses for Heroes (September 2013)
A refugee support group rides out of the city
This was a day trip for Heroes, a refugee support group based in Bristol and was designed to give families a taste of rural life, build relationships with each other and with Imayla. 25 children/young people accompanied by parents and Imayla support workers travelled to a riding & trekking centre in the Black Mountains in Wales where they learnt about the horses, had a short ride in the paddock to build confidence and then took a longer ride through fields and onto the hills.
Participants reported that as well as the riding experience, they developed personal skills in communication and in supporting and motivating each other to enjoy the challenge of new experiences.
The views were amazing.
I loved the whole rural experience.
It was great to get out of the city and get fresh air.
I got to spend special time with family & friends and meet new people.
I talked with new people I wouldn’t normally talk to.
I feel happy because I learnt new things and I conquered my fear.