A CHARITY that provides equestrian therapy for disabled people is trying to raise £400,000 to buy a ‘forever home’.

The North East Lancashire Riding for the Disabled Association (RDA), which shares the stables at Clough Bottom Farm in Haslingden, is hoping to find a permanent base.

MORE TOP STORIES:

When a suitable site is found the association will expand its services and provide craft, home economics and sports sessions.

It proposes to include a small animal farm, a petting zoo, sensory, herb and flower gardens.

The charity allows visitors to take part in a range of equestrian activities with the three horses Jamie, Ziggi and Ted.

Jody O’Brien, a riding instructor at the RDA, said a place of its own would mean the charity could work with more people.

She said: “The benefits of having a forever home are massive.

“We want somewhere with an indoor arena so we could work throughout the year.

“We had to cancel last week because of the snow fall.

“Recently we had to turn down the National Autistic Society because we simply have no room.

“Having a bigger place to call our own would have such a positive impact on the people we help.”

The charity is looking at places in Hapton for a suitable home.

Last year the charity’s future was uncertain because it had to leave its original base in Stoney Knoll Farm in Oswaldtwistle, as it was set to be sold.

After months of work a site in Haslingden was found which saved the RDA from folding.

Miss O’Brien said: “Each person who comes to our farm is given a specific therapy to help them with their needs, whether they have a physical or a learning disability.

“We want to add more areas to our therapy to include more people and have a well rounded service.

“People gain new skills, new confidence and enjoy themselves.

“They get to engage with animals and learn about how they are kept.

“It helps others improve their balance and motor skills.

“The money would help us set up a positive future and provide grounding so we can develop on.

“We would be able to create more training, more voluntary and employment opportunities.”

“We are open to donations, sponsorships and fundraising activities.”

To donate, visit www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/jody-obrien.