At Kingly Croft, our specialist neurological rehabilitation service in Leicestershire, we support adults to regain their confidence and independence.

One of our residents, Mark, is an example of what encouragement – paired with the right activity – can help unlock.

We spoke to Ida Chatburn, Registered Manager at Kingly Croft, who told us about Mark and how his love for horses has led to a newfound confidence.

Starting Slowly

Mark arrived at Kingly Croft in June 2022 after sustaining a brain injury in 2018. From the start, it was clear that he was private and reserved, preferring his own space. He didn’t engage in group activities and was hesitant about therapy. Most of all, he didn’t feel he needed support, which made it hard to build a plan around his goals.

But slowly, with regular one-to-one chats and a bit of gentle persistence, things began to shift. One afternoon in February, over a meal out, we got talking about what he might like to do – not what he was told to do. That conversation changed everything.

A Goal of His Own

When asked what he’d enjoy, Mark said he’d like to try horse riding. It wasn’t something we’d expected – but it gave us something meaningful to build around. Not a goal set by staff or therapists, but something Mark had chosen himself.

We found a local centre, Moor Farm Stables in Corley Moor near Coventry, and arranged a visit.

Mark came with me to look around, meet the instructors, and see if it felt like the right fit. We didn’t rush it. It was important that we observed, asked questions, and made sure the entire experience for Mark felt safe and manageable.

By August, he was ready to begin.

Building Trust in the Saddle

Mark’s first lesson was half an hour long, supported by an instructor who’d been fully briefed. I stayed with him throughout, on the field, so he wasn’t left on his own. We watched how he managed the equipment – boots and helmet – and whether he’d feel comfortable mounting and dismounting.

To his credit, Mark took it seriously from the outset. He followed instructions, showed good awareness of risks (even reminding me not to stand behind the horse!), and clearly enjoyed the experience.

It quickly became a regular fixture in this routine. Mark now attends sessions twice a month – something he not only looks forward to, but also takes real pride in.

Why It Matters

Horse riding has offered Mark more than just a hobby. It’s a physical activity that supports his mobility and coordination. It challenges him in a safe way, helps with routine and structure, and provides the mental stimulation that had been missing before.

It’s also had a knock-on effect. Since starting horse riding, Mark has shown increased interest in therapy. He recently agreed to work with our therapy team to go to the shop on his own and return safely – something he wouldn’t have considered this time last year.

Staying Safe

Before starting lessons, we conducted a comprehensive dynamic risk assessment. We observed how Mark coped physically, checked his willingness to wear the right gear, and ensured the instructors were aware of his needs, including his vision impairment.

The set-up at Moor Farm is secure, with clear instructions and a fenced arena. Mark’s progress has been carefully supported every step of the way.

The Bigger Picture

Since taking up horse riding, Mark has also become more open to other activities. He’s been on several day trips and holidays, often joining in where he would have once opted out. He’s come a long way.

As for what’s next? We’ve agreed to start with the basics: managing personal care, cooking, and developing independent living skills. If all goes well, we’ll work towards helping Mark achieve his goal – moving on from Kingly Croft.

For now, though, it all began with a quiet conversation and a horse.