Demand for our unique service has continued to increase since the pandemic and is reflected in our growing waiting list of over 100 children in need. Other sources within Milton Keynes indicate rising levels of childhood poverty, a growing demand for mental health services, a decline in educational attainment amongst disadvantaged children and young people, and children in the most deprived neighbourhoods not getting enough exercise.
Ride High is addressing all these needs and in 2023 managed to support 337 children and young people facing such challenges. We provided them with a safe and therapeutic sanctuary, where they could find some respite from their traumas and challenges and find peace and happiness in spending time with our horses, in learning new skills and developing a shared interest that bound them together and created long-lasting friendships. A regular weekly visit to Ride High provided stability and consistency and over time our members grew in confidence and moved from a position of surviving to thriving. The transformations we witness are truly incredible.
We can only achieve such outcomes with the support of the wonderful Milton Keynes community – individuals and corporate organisations, fundraisers, donors, supporters and volunteers, and Trusts and Foundations from across the UK. Their contributions are invaluable.
Our Impact Report showcases some success from the last year. Included are words directly from some of the children and our plans for the coming year. In 2023 we helped more children than ever before, and we are working harder than ever to ensure 2024 is another successful year.
Our Impact Report focuses on our achievements in 2022 and looks to the future. In 2022 we managed to support 256 children and young people, more than any year before.
Registered charity number: 1138260. Ride High is the trading name of Ride High Limited, a company limited by guarantee. Registered in England and Wales, no: 7363597.
We are members of HEIR (Human Equine Interaction Register UK).