On my second day I decided to visit Sandy Lane Equestrian Centre and one of the most iconic volunteer groups in Britain: the Salvation Army.
The Northwich Corps provides a helping hand to those who are homeless, friendless and in need. Their core belief that no one is beyond hope, however great their problems, and that disadvantaged people should be given respect and access to the practical, social and spiritual support they need to realise their potential and recover their personal dignity.
I was privileged to meet with Captain Imogen Stewart to learn about their work in Northwich and to get stuck into their gardening project.
If you would like to find out more about the Salvation Army’s work or to get volunteer visit: www.salvationarmy.org.uk/cno/Northwich
Next I took up the chance to visit Sandy Lane Equestrian RDA Group in Weaverham.
Their mission is to give disabled people the opportunity to ride and enjoy the activities connected with horse riding in a friendly, fun and safe environment.
Riders can be from age five upwards and includes those with learning and physical disabilities, accident victims and psychiatric disorders.
Meeting riders and listening to their stories showed me how riding is a great form of physiotherapy which is both therapeutic and recreational. I was struck but how it can improve co-ordination and muscular development and fitness as well as improving personal confidence and self-esteem.
If you want to learn more about fundraising for their ambitious projects, including a platform lift to help riders onto their horses, or to volunteer visit: www.sandylane-equestrian.co.uk