The project, which supports children up to the age of 14 across Harlow, Epping, and Uttlesford, aims to promote inclusion through sport and leisure activities. The horse riding sessions began on Thursday 5 June, and have already proven to be a great success.

Each session is delivered in blocks of 6 weeks, with 2 groups running every Thursday. One from 5pm to 5.45pm and the other from 6pm to 6.45pm.

Session Dates:

1st block – 5 June to 10 July
2nd block – 17 July to 21 August
Supporting physical development

Each session begins with 15 minutes of balance work to prepare the children for riding. With the support of trained handlers, every child was able to sit on and ride a horse during the first session—a milestone for many families.

The sessions are designed not only to teach riding skills but also to support physical development, including balance, coordination, and muscle strength. Beyond the physical benefits, horse riding has been shown to reduce anxiety, build confidence, and foster social interaction in a calm, non-judgmental environment.

Councillor Kaz Rizvi, Portfolio Holder for Community Health and Wellbeing: “The introduction of these inclusive horse-riding sessions are a valuable addition to the West Essex Inclusion Project’s wider programme of activities. This initiative reflects the ongoing commitment to ensuring that children with additional needs have access to enriching, supportive experiences. It’s amazing to see the joy, confidence, and sense of achievement these sessions bring to families across Harlow, Epping, and Uttlesford.

Parent of an attendee: “I just want to say thank you from the bottom of my heart for arranging the horse riding sessions.

“My child prefers to stay at home so it was priceless to see my daughter free and on the horse. I honestly don’t know what we would do without groups like these.