Parent-led campaign for sensory trail raises €20k
By Mary Dennehy
A PARENT-led campaign has raised €20k for the development of a sensory trail at the Fettercairn Youth Horse Project, which will benefit all children using the inclusive facility.
For the past three years the horse project has been trying to raise money for an integrated, educational and therapeutic riding trail within the existing grounds of the community facility.
Currently, the project provides reduced-cost lessons for the parents of children with special needs, providing a therapeutic and fun activity for local kids, while creating a space for them to engage with horses and instructors.
Around 30 per cent of children attending the project have special needs, including Luke Fox, who was diagnosed with autism three years ago.
Living in Saggart, Luke’s mam Amanda and her friend Grainne Coyle, who has a girl called Lucy on the autism spectrum, joined forces to raise €20k for the development of a sensory trail after witnessing the positive effects horse-riding has on children.
According to Amanda, Luke has experienced increased physical, social and emotional wellbeing from attending the horse project, with the introduction of a sensory trail enhancing the benefits for all children.
Encouraging communication
“The sensory trail will be an amazing addition to the project and will facilitate a number of groups and local schools, as well as local and countywide children attending the project,” Amanda said.
“A sensory trail will add to the experience especially for those with special needs, [including] increased stimulation, balance, motivation and co-ordination, while also improving independence and encouraging communication.”
Most of the €20k was raised through this year’s Mini-Marathon, when Amanda, Grainne and a crew of their friends and family took part in the event under the team name of Luke and Lucy’s Ladies.
“We’re hoping to get the trail going as soon as possible,” Amanda said.
“We may need to raise a few more grand, push our total up to around €25,000, to make sure the project is fully covered.
“We’re going to get a project management team in place and get some quotes in, and any experienced builders or companies that have constructed sensory trails are encouraged to get in touch.
“We have had so much support from local businesses to date and we’d like to say a massive thank-you to everybody for their support and sponsorship.”
To support the development of the sensory trail contact the Fettercairn Youth Horse Project on 462 7214.
