The Horse Rangers Association is a registered charity based at the Royal Mews, Hampton Court. Founded in 1954 by Raymond Gordon, we are dedicated to supporting children and young people from all backgrounds and abilities by giving them the opportunity to develop confidence and life skills through learning to ride and care for horses. We rely on monthly subscriptions from our members for most of our income, supplemented by fund raising and charitable donations. We regularly hold special events to help raise funds for the organisation and our Musical Ride Display Team can also be booked to perform in the local area. We receive no grants from central government.

The association is organised into different groups called squadrons, with our members known as Rangers. Squadrons 1-5 (mainstream) meet each week to learn how to ride and care for our horses and ponies. Squadron 6 and 7 are dedicated to providing horse riding sessions for Rangers with disabilities and these two groups collectively form a member group of the Riding for the Disabled Association (RDA). Our local community is extremely important to us. Through working in partnership with our local Young Carers’ Projects, Children’s Services and schools, we are able to deliver outreach programmes and provide volunteering opportunities to disadvantaged children and young people.

The Horse Rangers’ Principles
1. Open to all
We offer assisted places to ensure that no one is denied access as a result of their financial circumstances.

2. Equal Opportunities
Membership is available to any child or young person, from any background and any ability. We also actively seek to engage members of our community through our outreach work and community events.

3. Personal Development
As they progress, Rangers learn the skills necessary to look after the horses and ponies. Rangers develop confidence and a sense of pride in themselves and their abilities.

4. Caring for Others
As they get older, Rangers take on additional responsibilities by supervising the younger Rangers.

5. Commitment
The benefit that a young person gets from being a Ranger will depend upon their level of commitment to achieving their individual goals. The organisation is open throughout the year and members are expected to attend as often as possible.

6. Achievement-focussed
We operate a badge system to encourage and reward personal development.

7. Progressive
The range of opportunities available to Rangers should increase as they progress and develop their skills base. Rangers are encouraged to take on responsibilities as leaders and instructors when they become adults.

8. Fun
Rangers and volunteers should find participation in activities at the HRA both enjoyable and satisfying.

9. Safety
Horse riding is a dangerous sport; we take health and safety seriously and try to mitigate the risk to members through the implementation of best practice procedures.