Some charities to stay closed until next year
Visitor attractions are now allowed to reopen but it will not work for all
AS the equestrian world focuses on a new normal, some charities are reopening – but others will remain closed as the impact of Covid-19 means they must prioritise resources.
Under Government guidance on easing lockdown restrictions, visitor attractions could open from 4 July. The Horse and
Pony Protection Association’s Shores Hey Farm has reopened with restrictions, and Bransby Horses reopens on 8 July – but World Horse Welfare, the Horse Trust, the Donkey Sanctuary and Redwings remain closed.
“We’ve been working hard to ensure new hygiene and social distancing measures are implemented in a way that still allow our supporters to enjoy a memorable visit,” said Bransby chief executive Jo Snell.
World Horse Welfare’s centres will be closed until February.
“While we love having visitors, this adds additional risk. The protective measures would also involve taking valuable time from staff,” said CEO Roly Owers.
“The charity’s priority has to be rehabilitation and rehoming. With all four farms at full capacity, making space for the large number of welfare cases expected later is vital.
“The pandemic is having a significant financial impact across all our income sources,” he said.
“On the upside, we have now rehomed more in 2020 than at this point last year, and legacy income is beginning to pick up again, so through juggling priorities we should be able to cope with the challenges.”
Jeanette Allen, chief executive of the Horse Trust, which is shut until at least September, agreed on a financial impact.
“Closure will have cost £80,000 to £100,000,” she said. “On top, we will lose the less easily quantifiable support from visitors choosing to sponsor a horse, pony or donkey having met them.
“We are still battling with lower staffing levels so bringing horses in and out of stables for opening is not essential but is a strain on resources, and caring for them is of course where we are focusing those resources.”
Redwings’ reopening is “under review” and the Donkey Sanctuary will remain temporarily closed.