KATE Green, MP for Stretford and Urmston, visited Carrington Riding Centre to hear about their work to improve the lives of disengaged young people.

Carrington is one of 12 centres across the country taking part in the Changing Lives through Horses programme, which aims to improve the lives of young people aged 14-16 years who, for various reasons, are disengaged and at risk of becoming excluded.

The programme, run by the British Horse Society, and aimed at young people in secondary school who would be more suited to an alternative education environment, uses work with horses to provide young people with a natural sense of structure and responsibility.

By working with horses, the young people are able to connect once again with society, improve their wellbeing and develop essential life skills.

There are currently 15 young people on the Changing Lives through Horses programme at Carrington Riding Centre.

While at Carrington, Kate met some of the instructors, young people on the programme, and tried out a ride for herself, on a horse simulator named Othello.

Ms Green said: “I really enjoyed my visit to Carrington Riding Centre to see the great work that they do in helping local young people.

“Changing Lives through Horses is a fabulous programme, which really transforms the lives of young people for whom school or daily life is a struggle.

“It was a privilege to meet so many dedicated staff, and to hear about the training offered in conjunction with Trafford College, which enables students to go on to study subjects like equine management. I was really heartened by stories of so many students who continue to volunteer or work at the Centre.

“Huge thanks to Centre owner Sharon and all her staff, students, and the horses(!) for such an inspiring visit".

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