Elisabeth Svendsen Trust

As part of National Volunteer Week (1st–7th June), we have launched an appeal today to help find more volunteers to support our centre in Leeds.

EST provides over 150 special needs children with donkey-riding therapy at each of its centres every week and relies on the help of volunteers to carry out a wide range of tasks including leading the donkeys or supporting the children during the riding sessions.

Allison Mann, Principal of the Leeds centre says, "Our centre was opened in 1999 and volunteers have played a vital role right from the start – and without them, we just could not continue.

We need to find more volunteers who are willing to be called upon. Volunteers must be fit and have a keen interest in both donkeys and children with a wide range of disabilities. They are the first line givers of encouragement and assistance in the lesson and have a very rewarding responsibility."

Sue Dorsey helps out at EST Leeds every Wednesday. She explains what she does to help. "I like to help out where I can - whether it's in the arena, in the office or supporting the children. I'm really happy to help out anywhere. I used to be a teacher and I love animals, to see what the children get out of visiting the Centre is just so special."

If you can spare some time and would be interested in becoming a volunteer for EST Leeds, please contact us. Thank you.