Wilsden Equestrian Centre in Bradford was awarded British Horse Society Centre of the Year at a prestigious event at Wetherby Racecourse. They were recognised for their commitment to the Changing Lives through Horses inclusivity programme and the inclusive approach to the community that was taken during lockdown.
The Changing Lives through Horses programme supports many children and young people who have or are at risk of becoming disengaged with education. Many young people have attended the sessions to help them improve their social and communication skills and continue learning through the ASDAN scheme.
The centre is run by the Wheeler family, amazing staff and supported by many volunteers. When presenting the award James Hick the CEO of BHS, praised Jeannette Wheeler, the staff and volunteers for their commitment to the Changing Lives through Horses programme and the inclusive approach to the community that was taken during lockdown.
During the national lockdowns the Wheeler family kept all members at the centre engaged, running virtual badges, quizzes and regular pony updates. Inclusion is natural at the centre, time is taken to get to know the needs of all members and adaptions are made.