01
Riding sessions
Help instructors and riders during sessions and be part of a calm, encouraging team.
Volunteer with us
Give a little time. Make a real difference.
The Fort Centre depends on local volunteers. You do not have to be an expert with horses - there are many different ways to help.
Why volunteer?
Join a friendly local team.
You might help during a riding session, care for the horses, support an event or lend a hand behind the scenes.
Horse experience can be useful, but it is not needed for every role. Being reliable, patient and willing to learn matters just as much.
Volunteers must be at least 12 years old. Some roles also have physical, training or AccessNI requirements, which we will explain clearly before you start.
Volunteering at the Fort is not just about horses. It is about helping create safe, positive experiences for riders and families.
Ways to help
There is more than one way to help.
What we need changes through the year, so get in touch and tell us what you enjoy doing.
02
Horses and ponies
Lend a hand with suitable tasks such as feed, bedding, grooming, tack and the stables.
03
Fundraising
Help with a community event, collection, online appeal or your own sponsored challenge.
04
Facilities and grounds
Support maintenance, tidying, equipment or seasonal jobs around the centre.
05
Events and hospitality
Welcome visitors and help at open days, Christmas events, tractor runs and other activities.
06
Admin and promotion
Help with communications, records or other behind-the-scenes jobs with guidance from the team.
What happens next
Start with a friendly chat.
We will tell you where help is needed and what each role involves. There is no pressure to commit before you know the details.
Tell us about yourself
Tell us when you are available, what interests you and any useful experience you have.
Find the right role
We will explain the current opportunities and help you choose something suitable.
Get ready to begin
You will complete an application and references. Some roles also need an interview, training or an enhanced AccessNI check.
A good fit
What helps volunteers succeed
- Being aged 12 or over
- Being dependable and arriving when agreed
- Listening to the instructor or volunteer lead
- Respecting rider dignity, privacy and choice
- Staying calm around horses, riders and visitors
- Speaking up if something feels unsafe
- Being willing to learn how the centre works
Keeping everyone safe
Good volunteers follow clear boundaries.
Our guidelines put the safety and wellbeing of riders first. Volunteers complete the checks and training needed for their role and know who to speak to if they have a concern.
Please do not take photographs, share a rider’s story or post about them online without permission. Privacy and dignity matter.
We will help you prepare. Every new volunteer has a trial period, and the team will explain the application, references, training and checks that apply to the role.
Offer your time
Tell us how you would like to help.
Send us your availability, whether you have horse experience and any other skills you would be happy to share.