Forres, Nairn and District Riding for the Disabled Association run Tea with a Pony sessions for people with cognitive impairment

A LOCAL charity is introducing people to animals to improve wellbeing.

Forres, Nairn and District Riding for the Disabled Association (RDA) started Tea with a Pony this month and has already seen success.

RDA chairwoman, Sonia Howell, confirmed the sessions are for people living with dementia and other cognitive impairment. Participants attend with their carers and have refreshments before getting hands-on with a pony during a non-riding session.

She said: “Tea With a Pony is a relatively new initiative by RDA nationally. We are the first group in Grampian and Highland to launch it but several others will be starting soon, including Moray.”

RDA trustee and Moray Dementia Advisor for Alzheimer Scotland, Emma Gregg, said being around animals is beneficial for people with dementia as it stimulates memories and feelings.

She explained: “It can also have a calming effect which in turn can help reduce anxiety and stress.

“Tea with a pony participants enjoy a cup of tea and cake before grooming or stroking the ponies, depending on how comfortable and confident they feel.”

Two ladies with dementia who attended the first Forres RDA session with their daughters spent 20 minutes grooming.

Sonia said: “It was really emotional - the amount those ladies got from being near the ponies was astonishing!

“The sessions are an ideal opportunity for volunteers to get involved and will appeal to those who find the riding sessions a bit tough. I guarantee anyone involved in an hour on an occasional Monday afternoon will come away inspired and smiling!”

Forres Nairn and District RDA delivers weekly term-time therapeutic riding sessions for children with disabilities from local primary and secondary schools.

Volunteers act as leaders for the ponies, side-walkers and fundraisers.

Anyone who would like further information on the local group can call 07779 082202 or email soniaghowell@gmail.com