A UNIQUE work and training scheme has given an Okehampton man with learning difficulties the chance to sit firmly in the saddle and learn a host of new skills. Access to Employment is part of Devon County Council's adult and community services. Through Access to Employment, Gail and Nick Palmer, of Easter Hall Park Stables at Petrockstowe, have given Brian Delve, from Okehampton, the opportunity to train and work with one of their horses. Gail and Nick, who have a son with learning disabilities, recognise the importance of the special relationship that can develop between horse and handler as well as the benefit that work can bring into people's lives. Brian, who has been working at Easter Hall Park since October 2006, is learning how effectively to communicate with the horse, Tom, as well as how to groom him for riding. He has already started to ride and is looking forward to further developing his communication and riding skills with Tom. Brian's work placement was facilitated by Clancy Lawrence from Access to Employment and ongoing support is provided by Shaun Brown who works at Brian's home, Bracken Tor in Okehampton. Clancy has aided Brian's development by making a journal of photographs that help his work and enable him to learn various new skills. This has included knowing what tools and equipment are needed in stable management and how to use them correctly. Access to Employment works with employers throughout Devon, aiming to help people with learning difficulties follow their chosen career, succeed in employment and make their work ambitions become a reality. Easter Hall Park riding school and livery stable opened six years ago and the school offers a range of activities, including riding and carriage driving lessons. The have an action packed month in April, including a gymkhana afternoon on April 10, a walk trot and canter day on April 11, a lead rein afternoon on April 16 and a clear round jumping day on April 18. Anyone interested in any of these events can contact the stables on 01837 810350. For more information about Access to Employment contact Clancy Lawrence on 07814 493693 or e- mail [email protected]">[email protected] Clancy would especially like to hear from anyone who can offer work placements or could voluntarily support people already in their work placements.
