Sounds of the Sanctuary

In this episode of Field Notes, Helen Whitelegg from our Campaigns team tells us all about the research Redwings has been involved in looking into the impact of the cost-of-living on horse owners across the UK, as well as rescue organisations like Redwings. As a member of the National Equine Welfare Council, Redwings worked on a survey, and a subsequent report, on the issue - which was shared with government bodies and across the equestrian industry.Hear the results of the survey, and how NEWC members will use them to help tailor support for horse owners, even when our own resources are stretched by rising costs as well. 

Caring is in our nature at Redwings, starting from the first minute we are contacted about a pony in trouble.Join us on the welfare operation that saw Mason, a weak orphaned foal, brought to Redwings, and hear the team in action as they take part in a rescue in South Wales, and then give him the treatment he desperately needed. We also care for our equines as individuals - as so beautifully demonstrated by little Neddy, a donkey at Redwings Mountains. Hear the team tell us all about this cheeky chap, and how he is much more comfortable in the company of big horses!Last but not least, the team at one of our sanctuary sites in Norfolk tell us all about a project which has seen their barn transformed - all thanks to a bit of creative recycling and repurposing! Now they have more stables for ponies who need them, and the team are proud to show off their handiwork!

Listen to Helen Whitelegg, Redwings' Research and Policy Officer, talk about the links between Black Beauty, and the equine welfare issues we still encounter today. Almost 150 years after the novel's publication, we discuss how author Anna Sewell was advocating the same changes to the treatment of horses which Redwings continues to champion today, and how her insights all those years ago overlap with modern equitation science. Plus, Helen shares why she thinks the novel continues to be such a classic, and what horse owners of today can take from Black Beauty's story. 

In this episode, discover more about Redwings' connections to the inspirational Anna Sewell, and her novel Black Beauty.Hear how Redwings is getting ready to launch our very own copy of the book - which for the first time will directly raise money for horses in need - and how our partnership with the University of East Anglia will bring Black Beauty to life for a new generation of readers.Redwings volunteer Clarissa tells us all about looking after Anna Sewell House, and welcoming visitors to her birthplace to help them discover more about her impact on animal welfare, and Redwings' work today. Plus, Redwings team member Georgie (and Anna Sewell expert!) talks passionately about the links she sees between what Anna wrote about all those years ago, and how Redwings is continuing her legacy in equine welfare today. 

Hear from the team at Redwings Mountains, our resident experts for handling everything the weather can throw at them!This interview, recorded just before Storm Babet and the red weather warning which impacted Redwings Mountains, features their top tips for surviving the winter, and their insights into how they provide the best possible care for our residents, whatever the weather!Storm Babet caused damage across the site at Redwings Mountains, and the team have faced two more storms since - including one just this week. Help us weather the storm here:  www.redwings.org.uk/news-and-features/counting-cost-storm-babet - thank you