EST History

How it all began

The use of donkeys as riding therapy for children with special needs and disabilities was the brainchild of Dr Elisabeth D Svendsen, MBE, the founder and Honorary Administrator of the Elisabeth Svendsen Trust for Children and Donkeys (EST).

Being a qualified teacher and Chief Executive of The Donkey Sanctuary, Dr Svendsen decided to bring her two great loves together, donkeys and children.

The necessary funds were raised to create the first purpose-built riding centre for children with special needs and disabilities and in 1975, The Slade Centre at Sidmouth was registered as a charity.

As the aims and objectives of The Slade Centre restricted its activities to the Devon area, The Elisabeth Svendsen Trust for Children and Donkeys (EST) was registered as a charity in 1989 and a second centre was opened in Sutton Park, Birmingham with the assistance of the Elise Pilkington Trust.

In 1997 The Slade Centre and EST charities were amalgamated to save administration costs.

In September 1999, a third centre was opened, this time at Eccup, near Leeds. Dame Thora Hird, a dedicated supporter of the Elisabeth Svendsen Trust for Children and Donkeys was present at the official opening ceremony.

In August 2004, a fourth centre was opened by Rhodri Williams. It is situated in Debdale Park and is a focus of the community, having been built near to the residential area of Abbey Hey.

In June 2007, our most recent centre was opened.  It is situated in Filham Park, Ivybridge, an established popular amenity for the local community.