ALABARÉ Veterans take on polo lessons to improve well-being

Thursday, 20 November 2025 20:03

A collaborative programme by ALABARÉ, the Armed Forces Equine Charity, Power of Polo and the Veterans Foundation has had a huge impact on veterans who have experienced homelessness.

A group of former military personnel have completed a week-long residential at Tedworth Park Polo Club in Tidworth, where they not only learned how to ride horses, but the skills and rules of the sport of polo.

The activities have built teamwork, emotional resilience, physical strength, mindfulness, and confidence for veterans, some of whom had never been on horseback before the sessions began.

The week concluded with a mini tournament to put their skills into practice and highlight the progress made.

One participant, Steve, said: “The experience has been extremely special for me and everyone taking part. I would never have believed I’d have been able to do this, and spending time with a horse has helped me so much.

“I want to thank everyone involved for giving us this opportunity to come together as a team and grow in confidence.”

The polo sessions have been provided to ALABARÉ Homes for Veterans residents through the Armed Forces Equine Charity’s Veteran Active Recovery Programme and funding from the Veterans Foundation.

Power of Polo and Polo Biz delivered the equine and sporting elements of the programme, with plans for participants to continue polo lessons to maintain and build on their skills.

The week has been part of ALABARÉ’s Boots on the Ground well-being programme, aimed at providing veterans in the charity’s services with opportunities to get outside, have structured activities, boost their physical and mental health, and regain a sense of camaraderie, as part of the mission to break the cycle of homelessness.

Karen Langley, Boots on the Ground Manager for ALABARÉ, said, “A lot of our veterans feel a lack of self-worth, so having the chance to be part of something like this, and to be challenged to learn something new, boosts their self-esteem and confidence so much. Being back in a team, cheering each other on, making decisions…it’s fabulous to see.”

Support is needed for veterans to continue polo sessions. Following the residential, ALABARÉ veterans taking part have been offered further polo sessions, through the generous support of the coaches involved.

However, the veterans require vital safety equipment to continue their lessons and are seeking donations of riding helmets and boots for participants.

Any businesses or individuals who can help are asked to email enquiries@alabare.co.uk