Our Stories

B is a 15 -year old boy, who has been in the care system since 18 months old, due to the consequences of parental substance abuse and was moved to a foster family in the Scottish Borders. B was severely traumatised and neglected when he was placed into the care of his current long term foster parents. They were told that he would never walk or talk or be able to attend mainstream school. B was initially referred to us age 11, when struggling in school. He was diagnosed as having ADHD, and delayed personal development, understandably suffered with relationship issues, anger issues and poor social skills, particularly with peers. We began to work with B on a weekly basis in a small group. B always tried so very hard and always wanted to please. You could tell he struggled socially but in a supported environment, settled with the others and his skills began to develop. There were times where he could become rather raised, but he accepted the boundaries and adapted well. He needed constant monitoring regarding impulsiveness but again adapted and stuck to boundaries. His confidence began to grow and he developed a belief in himself that he could achieve what others could. After his initial spell at Stable Life B would be invited back to holiday activity sessions and would never fail to attend. He went on to participate in our Environmental Group (outdoor learning, den building etc) and turned up even in freezing temperatures. B has now gone on become part of a football team, which was a huge hurdle in the past due to his struggle to handle any decisions against him. Now 15, school approached us regarding a work experience week. Initially it was thought that he may struggle as he potentially needed a high level of supervision. We agreed the placement and he started on a couple of hours, build up to half days then on to full days by the end of his time. B absolutely blew the Yard Manager away with his diligence, hard work and taking on responsibilities, showed he could be trusted and always completed tasks. To send him back to school with a glowing report was such a huge achievement considering the boy we first met. B now volunteers on the yard at the weekends, consistently proving himself as a real grafter when it comes to work, and can be trusted to complete tasks, and always looking for more to do. He helps with our ‘Tiny Totters’ (junior riders under 5), and has a lovely way with them, always encouraging, with a touch of his own sense of humour to put them at ease. He is highly regarded by the yard staff and peer volunteers. For B to feel accepted and part of something has really continued to improve his confidence and self-esteem which was very much lacking when he first set foot on the Yard. He loves his riding and his skills have been seen to improve greatly and enjoys his lessons and rides over the hills as his reward for his hard work. He has a really special bond with a pony called Paddy which he absolutely adores. B continues to strive to better himself and looks forward with goals and aspiration, and disproving the expectations initially given. He is a bright funny boy, whom with the right family around him, and added support from organisations like Stable Life who do not judge, but accept what we see and nurture and encourage, there is no stopping children like B.