Volunteer

The Magpie Centre simply wouldn’t exist without our volunteers.

Every aspect of what we do – from our riding and carriage driving sessions to caring for the ponies and maintaining our grounds – relies on the time, energy, and dedication of our volunteer team. They are the heart of our organisation.

Our volunteers come from all walks of life and support us in countless ways:

  • Assisting in riding and carriage driving sessions
  • Grooming and caring for the ponies
  • Tack cleaning and yard duties
  • Field and facility maintenance
  • Fundraising and events
  • Governance and leadership as Trustees

Whether you can give a few hours a week or want to become more involved, every contribution makes a real difference to the people who rely on us. No prior experience with horses or disability is necessary – support and a warm, welcoming environment await.

Volunteering with us is incredibly rewarding. It’s a chance to learn new skills, meet new people, and be part of something that genuinely changes lives.

Join us and become part of our Magpie community.

Volunteer Form
What our volunteers say
“ I first started volunteering at Magpie about 10 years ago. I have always been around horses and at the time I worked at a school for children with special educational needs. Volunteering at Magpie seemed to tick both boxes. Over the last 10 years I have witnessed first hand the difference that the entire team at Magpie make. I have seen children with physical disabilities benefit from riding. I have seen young people and adults with mental health problems become one with a horse who asks nothing of them. The staff and volunteers at Magpie work tirelessly to ensure the health and wellbeing of not only the horses but the clients too. Four years ago I was in a privileged position to be able to buy a horse that was suitable for RDA. Harry has helped numerous riders to become confident and happy with their abilities. His passion is carriage driving where he continues to excel. Recently coming 3rd in Nationals. Not only is Magpie good for clients it’s a great place to volunteer. Over the years I have made lots of new friends as we find a common love of horses and helping others. ”
Elaine
“ I volunteer at the Magpie Centre primarily with Tea With a Pony and just love to see the smiling faces of those with dementia or other disabilities when they come into the sensory garden and meet Pebbles for the first time and then have tea and cake with us! A lot of the visitors have memories of when they were children, riding, or having contact with horses and it is a joy to listen to their stories which seem to resurface when visiting us. I think it is such a worthwhile volunteering role, with benefits on both sides ”
Alison
“ Volunteering at the Magpie Centre is one of the most rewarding things I’ve ever done. I love being part of such a supportive, friendly team and knowing that the time I give genuinely makes a difference. I smile from start to finish of every session. Watching the riders grow in confidence and seeing the bond they form with the horses is incredibly moving. Every session reminds me how powerful and healing these experiences can be, not just for the riders, but for everyone involved. It’s a place full of laughter, learning, and small moments that mean so much. I always leave with a full heart. ”
Holly
“ I have volunteered at the magpie centre for 10 years .  I love coming to the centre and always look forward to my days there.  I have made some lovely  friends and the support from the staff and volunteers is wonderful we often how a good natter  and a laugh     I have always enjoyed being around horses but  the ones at the centre are a very special kind, they  help to  enrich and gain in confidence so many adults and children’s lives.   I help mainly with lessons and carriage rides  and find it wonderful to see the clients be able to achieve more than they ever thought they could it is   amazing and often brings a smile to my face and a tear to my eye.   I also help with tea with a pony which my  parents recently enjoyed for a birthday carriage ride treat  they throughly enjoyed there afternoon and commented how friendly everyone is  and how well cared for the Horses s are.   I cannot think of a better place to volunteer ”
Mandi