Claire Schimmer, Trustee of Inclusive Nature, Liz Morrison and Stephanie Quintrell presented a talk on ‘Access to Adventure’ at the Naidex 2025 exhibition at the NEC in March.  

Naidex has supported the disability community for over 50 years, providing a gateway to a world of invaluable support, resources and inspiration. The exhibition and programme of speakers covers all aspects of the disability journey, making it a truly holistic event. Whether you’re living with a disability, a carer, or supplying products and services to the community, this event is always a must-attend.

Claire highlighted how important access to nature – and adventure – could be. One way is through horses, as equestrian businesses are often accessibility aware, and based in lovely countryside locations!  Increasingly they are training to provide a range of unmounted ‘equine-facilitated activities’ in riding schools and professional centres.  As more people understand the benefit that horses can give, this will increase. 

Liz Morrison, founder of The Happiness Horsebox CIC, gave an example of a mobile facility that can provide support for outdoor activities as diverse as wild swimming, all terrain wheelchair routes as well as the peacefulness of bird watching and fishing – and of course horse riding and visiting equestrian events .  

The presentation was completed by Stephanie Quintrell, founder of Equine Para Adventures CIC.  She shared her inspiring story of organising a trek across the Pyrenees in 2024. Next are plans to ride across the Andes in 2026, with her wheelchair carried by a horse.