Vodafone supports Inspire's horseback riding area

Vodafone Malta Foundation (VMF) recently donated €13,980 towards the Inspire Foundation's therapeutic horseback riding area, located at their Marsascala Centre.

Therapeutic horseback riding involves a physical, occupational and speech-language therapy treatment strategy that utilises equine movement as part of an integrated intervention programme to achieve functional outcomes.

Physical benefits are achieved through postural re-education, limb strengthening and balance while intellectual benefits are achieved through interaction in a social setting and learning through enjoyment.

Because the horseback riding arena was previously open to the elements, sessions were being cancelled to the effect that the children were missing extensive periods of time of riding, especially in summer.

Overflow of rain water was flooding the riding arena, paddock and grooming area and also affecting the animal park.

With the aid of VMF, drain pipes covered with a special filtration membrane that allows the water to flow through have now been installed along the length of the arena. This draining system will facilitate the flow of the water in a much faster and efficient manner.

A shading tent has also been set up to cover the arena from excessive summer heat while the pony area has been extended and a second stable has been built. The water draining system has also been upgraded in the pony area.

Moreover, a permanent shade has been fitted in the waiting area to protect the children and their carers from the sun and rain and a ticket booth has been re-built at the entrance. The coordinator's room has also been repaired, while the previous hay stack area has been converted into a grooming area where the children learn all about caring for the horses in a safe and well-equipped environment.