Andrew RT Davies MS – Shadow Minister for Health, Social Services and Sport – has backed calls from RDA (Riding for the Disabled Association) to reopen indoor riding centres.
According to RDA, some 77 percent of its members have reported they the continuing closure of indoor centres has had a negative effect on their mental health.
The charity organises activities including riding and carriage driving, as well as providing therapy, fitness, and skills development.
Mr Davies said:
“The benefits of ‘equine therapy’ for people with a range of conditions and disabilities are well-documented, and the specific benefits of RDA to its service users are almost beyond measure.
“The mental health and well-being of so many people in Wales is being adversely affected by the current ban on the use of indoor riding centres.
“I urge the Welsh Labour-led Government to review this as soon as possible, because it can be done in a safe and sensible manner.
“We Welsh Conservatives have led calls for Wales to re-open to get the economy moving. However, just as vital is opening Wales up fully to maintain people’s mental and physical health nearly four months after the lockdown started.”