INTERVIEW WITH Rachel from the Stables
Jack
BENNET ‘N’ ZOE
Tom
Zoe
Q What time do the stables open?
A The stables are open every day. 9am – 9pm weekdays and 9am – 4pm at the weekends.
Q Do you need any special equipment to ride at the stables?
A No. Stepney will let you borrow a hat. It is best to wear comfortable trousers and shoes or boots with a low, flat heel.
Q Do you need to be experienced to ride at Stepney?
A Not at all! It doesn’t matter if you’ve never been on a horse before in your life. You can come along and have a look at the horses and maybe go on a walk before you book a lesson.
Q Where do you ride?
A We have an indoor arena, outside arena and a stadium. Sometimes we go on hacks and walks through the streets near the stables.
Q How many horses are there at Stepney?
A We have 19 horses altogether.
Q What is the biggest horse at Stepney?
A Maggie is the biggest. She is 15.3 hands high. (A hand is 4 inches)
Q What is the smallest horse at Stepney?
A We have several Shetlands, and the smallest horse is Appleby who is only 32 inches high!
Q What about if I don’t want to ride but would like to help look after the horses?
A That’s fine. We have youth workers who will train you and teach you how to look after the horses. Stepney has a badge system (red, amber and green). When you start you are on red, but the move you learn and the more experience you get you can work you way up to green.
Q Who can Volunteer?
A Anyone
Q Do I need any special skills ?
A If you have a specialist skill like experience with horses or Admin. Or can help with repairs and maintenance of the stables that’s great. But if you have enthusiasm, commitment and an openness to learn you are more than welcome to join us!
Q I’m not a Horsy person – can I still help?
A Of course, volunteers are involved in all aspects of the running of the project – from helping in the office, organising bookings and reception duties, fundraising through to sitting on the management committee of the stables.
Q What type of people volunteer ?
A Our volunteers are from all backgrounds and areas of the city. As for ages; we have volunteers who are aged from 8 to 80………….!
Q What can I expect in return ?
A We offer training, support and advice, personal development, social events, a reward system operates – the “Timebank” means that you can exchange hours worked for free rides and lessons. We can also guarantee the chance to meet new people, have fun and to enjoy yourself.
Q Why should I volunteer ?
A You’ll learn new skills, meet new people, find out more about yourself, you’ll help other people, volunteering supports the project – without the time given by volunteers the stables would find it virtually impossible to operate.