Clwyd Special Riding Centre
Hints for Helpers
Throughout the year our riders look forward to their regular riding sessions. To enjoy these to the full and reap the great benefits offered – they and the Centre rely on YOU, the helper.
Volunteers will be asked about any experience they may have with horses or disabled people and their tasks will be allocated accordingly.
All volunteers must attend a training session before they start helping with the riding sessions.
You may be asked to help the riders. The following notes will be helpful to you – please read them before you come.
DO come suitably dressed – warm, practical clothes and footwear (flat/low heels - sandals are not suitable). Jewellery kept to the minimum.
DO come armed with 100 per cent concentration.
DO remember that horses can be unpredictable however well trained they are.
WHEN THE LESSON IS IN PROGRESS A HELPER WILL BE FULFILLING ONE OF THE FOLLOWING ROLES:
Leader: Responsible for leading the horse and carrying out the instructor’s commands.
DO listen carefully to instructor’s commands.
DO keep a safe distance away from the horse in front i.e. one horse’s length.
DO make sure that the horse responds to your rider’s aids e.g. rider uses legs or voice to ‘walk on’ and ‘whoa’ – the horse must respond promptly.
DON’T give commands to your rider - that’s the job of the Sidewalker.
Leader: Preparing to help a rider to mount.
DO Check you have reins, stirrups (if needed) and girth is tight before going to the block. Ask if unsure.
DO Have reins attached to the bit rings. Hold onto the reins but DON’T put your fingers through the bit reins.
DO Have lead rope between the reins.
DO Have your left stirrup over the saddle.
DON’T Come into the platform until it is raised.
DO Steady your horse on the approach and back yourself in.
DO Stand in front of the horse at the platform.
DO Turn right a little as you walk away once the rider is aboard.
DO Wait for the lift to be lowered first.
DO Continue to the centre line for stirrup and girth check.
Sidewalker: Responsible for providing confidence and relaying instructor’s commands.
DO
listen to the instructor’s brief regarding your particular rider’s special needs.DO encourage your rider to be independent.
DO remember to decide who will talk to your rider if there are two sidewalkers.
DO stay level with your rider’s knee.
DON’T offer support by holding any of your rider’s clothing – if support is required your instructor will advise you. Please ask if you are unsure.
DON’T make unnecessary movements around the horses.
DON’T disturb your rider’s concentration by unnecessary chatting to your fellow helpers – this can make it hard for your rider to concentrate on the lesson.
Don’t forget If you are uncomfortable leading a certain horse or working with a particular rider—tell your instructor.
Clwyd Special Riding Trust very much appreciates your help
and hopes you will enjoy your day with us.